Extraverted innovators and conscientious laggards? Investigating effects of personality traits on language change

Abstract

Although personality-related factors play a crucial role in sociolinguistics as conceivable sources of language variation and change, there is insufficient quantitative evidence on such relationships. Using a large and balanced sample (n = 1000), this study investigated effects of personality traits on the use of a Swiss German plural marker in its early stages of diffusion. Besides age and region, conscientiousness and extraversion emerged as the most important predictors: less conscientious and, to a certain extent, more extraverted speakers were more likely to contribute to the diffusion of the morphological innovations under investigation. Based on our results, we argue that less conscientious speakers might monitor their own speech and that of others less closely, thus adopting innovations earlier, whereas extraverted speakers may act as successful brokers in transmitting innovations from one social group to another.

The influence of gratitude and personality traits on career resilience and career success among college students

“…Similarly, extraversion, which encompasses sociability, assertiveness, and enthusiasm, may influence the emotional-focused coping component of TTSC. Extraverted individuals tend to have larger social networks and are more likely to seek support from others when faced with stress ( Steiner et al, 2023 ), an emotion-focused coping strategy. This propensity can serve as a buffer against the negative impacts of career-related stress, facilitating better psychological well-being and, by extension, more positive career outcomes.…”

“…The integration of conscientiousness and extraversion as moderating factors is rooted in the premise that these traits significantly affect how individuals engage with their environment, process experiences, and implement coping strategies ( Steiner et al, 2023 ). For instance, conscientious students may be more adept at leveraging gratitude to enhance their career resilience, applying a methodical approach to overcoming obstacles and capitalizing on opportunities.…”