Personality Traits, Cognitive Distortions and Dysfunctional Attitudes in Students

Abstract

Trait is a fundamental aspect of human personality which is reflected in principle theories of personality in concepts of traits and considered as a different structure in every person.The present study aimsto examine the relationship between personality traits, cognitive distortions and dysfunctional attitudes in students. It washypothesized that there is likely to be a relationship between personality traits, cognitive distortions and dysfunctional attitudes in students. It was further hypothesized that personality traits and cognitive distortion are likely to predict dysfunctional attitude in students. Correlational research design and purposive sampling technique was used to collect data from students (N=150). Theage range was 19 to 25 (M=21.80; SD=2.18).Personality Trait Scale (Rammstedt & John, 2005), Cognitive Distortion Scale (Barriga et al., 2001) and Dysfunctional Attitude scale DAS-SF2 (Weissman, 1979) were used as assessment measures. Data was analyzed by using Descriptive, Correlation, and Regression analysis. Results revealed that personality traits have a negative significant relationship with dysfunctional attitude, while,cognitive distortions have a positive non-significant relationship with dysfunctional attitude. Personality traits have a positive and non-significant relationship with cognitive distortions. In regression analysis, neuroticism highly predicted dysfunctional attitude. While, extroversion, openness to experience, conscientiousness and agreeableness negatively predicted with dysfunctional attitude.The results were discussed with reference to relevant literature. The implications can be used for the counselling of students with dysfunctional attitudes.