Exploratory analysis on five-factor personality traits and parental bonding in predicting personality functioning using structural equation modeling

Recognizing the shift from a categorical to a dimensional approach in personality studies, this study explores the intricate relationships between parental bonding, five-factor personality traits, age and personality functioning presented in the AMPD (The Alternative Model of Personality Disorders) in the DSM-V (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition) Using structural equation modelling with 107 Czech university students gathered from two Czech universities, we employed STIP semi-structured interviews, Big five personality test and parental bonding scales to access the relationship between personality functioning, personality traits and parental interactions our analysis reveals that amongst hypothesized predictors in SEM model stability, which captures the need and ability to regulate one’s emotional experiences, and age are significant in influencing personality functioning, especially for identity and intimacy, which help describe the sense of self and interpersonal dynamics respectively. Plasticity and parental bonding lacked a significant impact on personality functioning. These findings underscore the importance of the stability dimension, which is comprised of neuroticism, conscientiousness and agreeableness, as well as age in forming one’s personality functioning.