A Multigroup Study of Personality Patterns in Creativity

The personality characteristics of three professional groups, each rated for level of creativity, were investigated using the California Psychological Inventory. Samples of male architects, mathematicians, and research scientists were compared and then combined to allow an over-all pattern of personality characteristics associated with creative accomplishment to emerge. Using regression analysis a five-variable index was constructed which yielded an over-all within sample validity of .375 (.35 corrected for shrinkage), and subsample validities of .42, .31, and .31, respectively. Scales with positive weights in the regression equation were Capacity for Status and Empathy; Sociability, Communality, and Good Impression received negative weights. The personological meaning of this creativity index was illustrated with California Q-sort, Adjective Check List, and case study data of selected high and low scorers.