Personality correlates of startle habituation

This study investigated the relationship between extraversion and rates of acoustic startle habituation, a potential biological marker for individual differences. Personality was measured using the Eysenck Personality Questionnaire (EPQ), the Sensation Seeking Scale (SSS), and Tellegen's Multidimensional Personality Questionnaire (MPQ). Higher EPQ Extraversion and higher SSS scores were associated with faster, more rapid startle habituation. Moreover, the relationship between extraversion and faster startle habituation was replicated in a second, follow-up sample. Within the initial study sample, lower scores on the Constraint (CON) factor of the MPQ (reflecting greater impulsiveness, risk-taking, and nonconformity) were also associated with faster startle habituation. Follow-up analyses revealed relationships between EPQ Extraversion, SSS, and low MPQ CON. These results suggest that faster habituation within the CNS may be associated tendencies toward impulsivity and behavioral disinhibition.