Individuals high in Neuroticism or low in Conscientiousness are vulnerable to being overweight or obese. In particular, the facets of these traits related to impulsivity – N5: Impulsiveness and (low) C5: Self-Discipline – were consistently associated with greater adiposity. Individuals with this constellation of traits tend to give in to temptation and lack the discipline to stay on task amid difficulties or frustration (Costa & McCrae, 1992). To maintain a healthy weight it is typically necessary to have a healthy diet and a sustained program of physical activity, both of which require commitment and restraint. Such control may be difficult for highly impulsive individuals. In addition to these impulsivity-related traits, across both the concurrent and longitudinal analyses, C2: Order was also consistently associated with adiposity. Such individuals may be leaner because they are organized and stick to a regular diet and meal schedule, which minimize the intake of extra calories.
