Do different circadian typology measures modulate their relationship with personality? A test using the Alternative...

Area of Science:

• Chronobiology
• Personality Psychology
• Psychometrics

Background:

• Inconsistent findings exist regarding the relationship between personality traits and circadian typology.
• Previous research hypothesized that personality measurement tools might moderate this relationship.
• The potential moderating effect of circadian rhythm assessment tools remained unexplored.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate whether the instrument used to measure circadian typology influences the observed relationship with personality traits.
• To compare the results obtained using the Composite Scale of Morningness (CSM) and the reduced Morningness-Eveningness Questionnaire (rMEQ) in conjunction with the Zuckerman-Kuhlman Personality Questionnaire.

Main Methods:

• A sample of 564 university students completed the Zuckerman-Kuhlman Personality Questionnaire, CSM, and rMEQ.
• Personality and circadian typology data were analyzed to identify differences across various scales and subscales.
• Statistical comparisons were made between the CSM and rMEQ in their ability to differentiate circadian typologies.

Main Results:

• Both CSM and rMEQ identified differences in Sociability and Impulsive Sensation-Seeking between circadian types.
• CSM additionally revealed differences in Activity and Aggression-Hostility, while rMEQ uniquely identified differences in Parties and Isolation Intolerance.
• CSM clearly separated morning types from evening types, whereas rMEQ showed intermediate or mixed results for neither types.

Conclusions:

• The relationship between circadian typology and personality is dependent on the specific questionnaire used to assess circadian rhythms.
• This methodological dependency may explain inconsistencies in previous research findings.
• The choice of psychometric instruments is crucial for accurately characterizing the interplay between chronotype and personality.