The association of Conscientiousness and Neuroticism on BMI and health behaviours: exploring the impact of Healthy Neuroticism

This cross-sectional study examined the relationships between personality traits, specifically Neuroticism and Conscientiousness, and Body Mass Index (BMI) in a national sample of 21,619 adults. Utilizing the Big Five Inventory-10 for personality assessment and self-reported measures for health behaviors, the study aimed to clarify the role of health behaviors in these associations. The findings indicate that Neuroticism and Unhealthy Neuroticism correlate positively with BMI, while Conscientiousness and Healthy Neuroticism are linked to lower BMI. Notably, health behaviors, including physical activity and dietary awareness, were found to mediate these relationships, both fully and partially. The results underscore the significance of differentiating between Healthy and Unhealthy Neuroticism in relation to BMI and health behaviors. Furthermore, stratified analyses suggest that educational level may influence these associations, reflecting underlying differences in health behaviors. [NPID: Conscientiousness, neuroticism, personality, diet]

Year: 2025

Reference: Pedersen, Z. O., Sørensen, K., Ewers, B., & Dammeyer, J. (2025). The association of Conscientiousness and Neuroticism on BMI and health behaviours: Exploring the impact of Healthy Neuroticism. Frontiers in Psychology, 16, 1634465. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2025.1634465

Related Studies

The grit personality trait, eating behavior, and obesity among Japanese adults: a cross-sectional study

The grit personality trait, eating behavior, and obesity among Japanese adults Obesity is a complex chronic disease influenced by various factors, including genetics, culture, environment, and psychosocial elements, complicating management efforts. This research examines the relationship between grit—a personality trait associated with self-control—and obesity, with a focus on how multidimensional eating behaviors mediate this connection. […]

Food and nutrient intakes by temperament traits: findings in the Helsinki Birth Cohort Study

Previous studies have connected the temperament trait with risk factors for chronic disease, but this 2018 study by Perälä and her team aim to examine the cross-sectional associations between temperament and diet. Firstly, information on the 1668 adults (aged 56-70, male and female) who took part in the Helsinki Birth Cohort Study were taken. Dietary […]