The role of personality traits in arbitral decision-making

Purpose This study examines the relationship between arbitrators’ personality traits and three dimensions of arbitral decision-making: perceptions of decision bias, arbitral preferences, and preferred sources of decision-making. Design/methodology/approach A quantitative, deductive research design was used. Findings The findings reveal that specific personality traits are significantly associated with differences across the three dimensions of arbitral decision-making. One of the study’s most notable findings is that arbitrators with higher levels of self-esteem and self-confidence are less likely to perceive themselves or other arbitrators as biased. Other personality traits found to have significant effects on arbitral decision-making include dedication to work, anxiety, and sociability. Originality/value This study introduces a novel approach to examining personality and professional decision-making in arbitration. By considering personality traits as potential influences on arbitrators’ decision-making, it contributes to the literature on arbitral decision-making.