Are pro-social or socially aversive people more physically symmetrical? Symmetry in relation to over 200 personality variables

Are pro-social or socially aversive people more physically symmetrical? Symmetry in relation to over 200 personality variables
Nicholas S Holtzman et al., 2011
http://nickholtzman.com/Holtzman%20Augustine%20Senne%202011%20Are%20pro-social%20or%20socially%20aversive%20people%20more%20physically%20symmetrical%20Symmetry%20in%20relation%20to%20over%20200%20personality%20variables.pdf


Abstract

Symmetry on bilateral body parts indicates evolutionary fitness. Thus, traits positively associated with symmetry are thought to have conferred fitness in evolutionary history. Studies of the relationships between personality traits and symmetry have been narrow and have produced inconsistent findings. In our study, we relate both body symmetry and facial symmetry to 203 personality variables and to the Big Five. Our results demonstrate that (a) symmetry is related to personality traits beyond chance, (b) socially aversive traits, such as aggression and Neuroticism are positively related to symmetry, and (c) pro-social traits such as empathy and Agreeableness are negatively related to symmetry. Such trait levels may developmentally adjust in response to symmetry or may be inherited with symmetry (i.e., dual inheritance).

Fluid Intelligence and Psychosocial Adaptation

Fluid Intelligence and Psychosocial Outcome: From Logical Problem Solving to Social Adaptation
David Huepe et al.; 2011
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3177863/


Abstract

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Background

While fluid intelligence has proved to be central to executive functioning, logical reasoning and other frontal functions, the role of this ability in psychosocial adaptation has not been well characterized.

Methodology/Principal Findings

A random-probabilistic sample of 2370 secondary school students completed measures of fluid intelligence (Raven's Progressive Matrices, RPM) and several measures of psychological adaptation: bullying (Delaware Bullying Questionnaire), domestic abuse of adolescents (Conflict Tactic Scale), drug intake (ONUDD), self-esteem (Rosenberg's Self Esteem Scale) and the Perceived Mental Health Scale (Spanish adaptation).

Lower fluid intelligence scores were associated with physical violence, both in the role of victim and victimizer. Drug intake, especially cannabis, cocaine and inhalants and lower self-esteem were also associated with lower fluid intelligence. Finally, scores on the perceived mental health assessment were better when fluid intelligence scores were higher.

Conclusions/Significance

Our results show evidence of a strong association between psychosocial adaptation and fluid intelligence, suggesting that the latter is not only central to executive functioning but also forms part of a more general capacity for adaptation to social contexts.

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