For example, more conscientious people may do more to protect their own health so that they can care for others. This last example suggests another interrelationship between mechanisms. That is, social control could operate more strongly for those who are higher on conscientiousness. Conversely, individuals with some characteristics (e.g., high hostility) may be more resistant to social control efforts. A life course perspective can draw attention to the interface of personality with social contexts in driving health behavior trajectories (Friedman 2000). Future sociological research should consider how personality, in interaction with social contexts, may shape social tie/health behavior connections.
