Personality correlates of method effects due to negatively worded items on the Rosenberg Self-Esteem scale

Covariance modeling was used to investigate correlates of method effects associated with negatively worded items on the Rosenberg Self-Esteem scale (Rosenberg, M., 1989) differentiated by respondent’s sex. Six personality measures thought to be related to the presence of this method effect (e.g., social desirability, evaluations by others, and self regulation of behavior) were incorporated into a path model. Analyses suggested that method effect associated with negatively worded items may be more prominent for subjects possessing selected personality traits than for others. Additionally, relationships varied by sex. Females reported that negative feedback from others spurred close reflection of behavior, while males reported greater tendencies to inhibit behavior before the negative outcome occurred.