Eysenck PEN model
The PEN model is a biologically grounded theory of personality developed by Hans Eysenck (with later work alongside Sybil Eysenck) from the 1940s through the 1970s. It sorts people along three broad, independent dimensions—Psychoticism, Extraversion, and Neuroticism—that Eysenck linked to underlying differences in nervous-system arousal and reactivity. Our free course places Eysenck in the history of trait theory, explains the three dimensions and their biological basis, and looks at his famous theory of the criminal personality.
An influential, biologically rooted trait theory; the Extraversion and Neuroticism dimensions are well replicated across studies, while Psychoticism remains more contested. The three-factor PEN model was set out by Eysenck & Eysenck (1976). (Hans J. Eysenck (with Sybil B. G. Eysenck), 1940s–1970s)
Dimensions
- Psychoticism (Tender-minded – Tough-minded) — High scorers tend to be tough-minded, impulsive, and unconventional, while low scorers tend to be tender-minded, empathetic, and conforming.
- Extraversion (Introversion – Extraversion) — High scorers are outgoing, sociable, and stimulation-seeking, while low (introverted) scorers are reserved, quiet, and prefer less external stimulation.
- Neuroticism (Emotional Stability – Neuroticism) — High scorers are emotionally reactive, anxious, and prone to negative moods, while low (stable) scorers are calm, even-tempered, and resilient under stress.
References
- Eysenck, H. J. (1947). Dimensions of Personality. Routledge & Kegan Paul
- Eysenck, H. J. (1967). The Biological Basis of Personality. Charles C. Thomas
- Eysenck, H. J., & Eysenck, S. B. G. (1976). Psychoticism as a Dimension of Personality. Hodder & Stoughton
- Eysenck, S. B. G., Eysenck, H. J., & Barrett, P. (1985). A revised version of the psychoticism scale. Personality and Individual Differences
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