The Big Five

The Five-Factor Model originated in Allport and Odbert's attempt to compile trait-related terms. Researchers became dissatisfied with the trait like differences in adaptational styles. Investigators focused on situational based approaches that offered greater flexibility in explaining specific person-environment transactions.
Webb studied the earlier work of Spearman and his General Factor (g) of intelligence. Webb found a second factor, Will (w). Later Garnett analyzed Webb's correlation and found a third factor, Cleverness (c). By 1919, three broad factors accounted for individual differ…