Where does self-control fit in the Five-Factor Model? Examining personality structure in children and adults

The present study investigates the relation between self-control and Five-Factor Model (FFM), by first establishing a consistent factor structure for self-control tasks, and then projecting each kind of self-control onto FFM. A total of 90 mothers, 82 fathers, and their 95 children participated. Results showed that self-control formed four consistent factors in children and adults - motoric control, attentional control, non-planning impulsivity, and negotiation of goal-level conflicts. Random-intercept hierarchical models showed that two self-control factors had notable projections onto FFM dimensions. Motoric control was explained by Extraversion and Openness to Change, whereas non-planning impulsivity was explained by Extraversion, Agreeableness, Conscientiousness and Neuroticism. The other two self-control factors were not significantly linked to FFM dimensions. Modifications to FFM are suggested. (C) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.