Answer to Question 1
Neuroticism is a consistent negative predictor of happiness and well-being. Lahey defines this trait as follows: The personality trait of neuroticism refers to relatively stable tendencies to respond with negative emotions to threat, frustration, or loss. Individuals who score high in neuroticism are more prone to experience negative affect (e.g., anxiety, depression, anger, etc.), which by definition is associated with more unhappiness. Neuroticism is linked to many mental and physical disorders as well as to a poorer quality of life and possibly a shorter lifespan. Often people who score high in neuroticism use ineffective problem solving strategies such as rumination.
Answer to Question 2
Meta-analytic reviews report that conscientiousness (self-disciplined, efficient) ranks number one as the Big Five trait with the strongest positive relation to life satisfaction or number two behind extraversion. Why would conscientious people be more satisfied with their lives? Perhaps it is due to their greater likelihood of achieving their goals than impulsive or undirected individuals (those with opposite trait characteristics). Further, the process of setting challenging goals and working steadily toward them can create flow experiences, a concept that will be explored later, that lead to feelings of well-being.
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