The position of authenticity within extant models of personality

The aim of the current study was to explore where authenticity, derived from the humanistic tradition of psychology, was positioned within a number of extant models of personality. Exploratory and Confirmatory Factor Analysis of data from four samples (total N = 1286) suggested that authenticity can be considered as loading on the Honesty–Humility factor of personality. These findings are discussed in terms of the wider theoretical overlaps between Honesty–Humility and psychological functioning as emphasised by the humanistic tradition of psychology.

► Authenticity can be empirically located within the six factor personality space. ► Authenticity specifically loads on the Honesty–Humility factor. ► The findings are stable across key demographic groups.