Overarching personality paradigm: A neo-Cattellian psychometric model

Abstract

Abstract Research into a paradigm of human personality first requires the taxonomic delineation of normal and abnormal personality trait constructs, dynamic (motivation) traits, and transitory (emotional/mood) states. The Cattellian Psychometric Model is such an empirically-derived taxonomy of factor-analytically elucidated psychological constructs. Following Kline s suggestion that Cattell s model comprising 92 primary factors needed simplification, the present paper reports on a series of programmatic factor-analytic studies reducing the model down to just 30 separate factors, enabling construction of a whole suite of modern neo-Cattellian instruments. The present paper provides the point of departure for advancing measurement and research based on a more parsimonious Neo-Cattellian Psychometric Model. Construction of modern objective (T-data) personality test measures would greatly help to minimise the subjectivity of the current plethora of introspective, item-transparent self-report questionnaires and/or rating scales. Cattell s approach (including both his elaborate VIDAS systems model as well as his modulation theory and state-liability trait theory) continues to offer a general framework for understanding many controversies still faced today in relation to specific themes and problems in personality psychology.