Relationship Between Personality Traits and Stress Responses

Study presented here investigated the relationship between personality traits and stress responses in working adults residing in New Jersey. Using a quantitative, descriptive approach, 26 participants completed the Big Five Personality Test (BFPT) and the Fight, Flight, Freeze, Fawn Test (FFFFT) to evaluate potential correlations coefficients. Results indicated weak correlations across all traits, with Extraversion showing the strongest positive association with action-oriented stress responses like “fight” or “fawn” (r = 0.2597), and Agreeableness showing a slight positive association with “fawn” responses (r = 0.1833). Emotional Stability (Neuroticism) demonstrated a near-zero correlation, contrary to prior research suggesting a link with avoidance responses. Subgroup analysis of participants in the Information Technology field showed slightly stronger correlations. These findings suggest that personality traits exert only minor influence on stress responses, highlighting the need for larger-scale studies and more controlled methodologies. Despite limited correlations, the study offers insight into potential applications for workplace stress management, mental health interventions, and individualized coping strategies.