The Interaction Between Conscientiousness and General Mental Ability: Support for a Compensatory Interaction in Task Performance

We propose a compensatory interactive influence of conscientiousness and GMA in task performance such that is most beneficial to for low-GMA individuals. Drawing on trait by interaction theory empirical evidence mechanism low GMA, we contrast our hypothesis with prior research conscientiousness-GMA argue considered different type. observing likely requires (a) considering the appropriate form, including possible curvilinear conscientiousness-performance relationship; (b) measuring full domain (as opposed motivation proxies); (c) narrowing criterion reflect performance; (d) psychometric scoring variables increase power avoid type 1 error. In four employee samples (N1 = 300; N2 261; N3 1,413; N4 948), test two samples. three samples, results support nuanced compensates moderate high may be detrimental or unimportant high-GMA