If it walks like a duck: Construct validation of proverb-based personality dimensions

Previous research has investigated the personality-relevance of proverb endorsement. In this previous research, however, participants were provided with additional information to aid them in their interpretations of the proverbial phrases. Although seven proverb-based personality dimensions were revealed, it is not entirely clear whether these dimensions truly reflect dimensions encoded in the proverb domain itself, or whether they reflect, instead, meanings imposed by the definitional context. In this study, college-student participants relied on their own interpretations of proverbial wisdom to guide their endorsements. Significantly, two of the previously reported dimensions – the two that had previously seemed to be the most novel – did not replicate. Five proverb-based dimensions were replicated, however, and the relationships between these dimensions and dimensions assessed by more established personality inventories were explored. This study thus confirms that proverbial wisdom does indeed advocate behavior and beliefs relevant to important dimensions of individual difference.

► Participants rated their adherence to and endorsement of 200 proverb-based items.
► Five proverb-based personality dimensions replicated.
► Two previously-reported proverb-based dimensions did not replicate.
► Replicating dimensions were compared to those assessed by the NEO PI-R and MPQ-BF.
► The results confirm that folk views of personality are encoded in the proverb domain.