Construct Validation of a Short Five-Factor Model Instrument

Abstract

Abstract. The five-factor model (FFM) is currently the predominant model in trait psychology. To meet the need for an extremely brief measure of the FFM, Gosling, Rentfrow, and Swann (2003) developed the Ten-Item Personality Inventory (TIPI), which can be administered in about a minute. Here we describe the development and construct validation of a German version of the TIPI (the TIPI-G). Using a multijudge (self and peer), multiinstrument (TIPI-G and the German version of the NEO-PI-R) design, we evaluated the TIPI-G in terms of internal consistency, factor structure, convergent and discriminant validity, and coverage of the NEO-PI-R facets. Together the analyses suggest that the 10 unipolar items of the TIPI-G can provide an efficient approximation for longer measures of the FFM personality constructs. As such, the TIPI-G is recommended for research where time is limited, where the primary theoretical focus is on other constructs, or where it is desirable to reduce the testing burden on participants.