thus, two consumers might have equal needs for tension reduction, but differ in their level of extroversion, and as a consequence, engage in very different behaviors designed to satisfy that need
While motivations are the energizing and directing force that makes consumer behavior
purposeful and goal directed, the personality of the consumer helps guide and further
direct the behaviors chosen to accomplish goals in different situations. Personality is
an individual’s characteristic response tendencies across similar situations . Thus, two
consumers might have equal needs for tension reduction, but differ in their level of extroversion, and as a consequence, engage in very different behaviors designed to satisfy
that need.
While there are many theories of personality, those found to be most useful in a marketing
context are called trait theories. Trait theories examine personality as an individual
difference and thus allow marketers to segment consumers as a function of their personality
differences. Trait theories assume that (1) all individuals have internal characteristics or
traits related to action tendencies, and (2) there are consistent and measurable differences
between individuals on those characteristics. To demonstrate, imagine how you might
respond if you were asked to describe the personality of a friend. You might say that one
of your friends is aggressive, competitive, and outgoing. What you have described are the
behavioral tendencies or traits your friend has exhibited over time across a variety of situations.
Most trait theories state that traits are inherited or formed at an early age and are
relatively unchanging over the years. Differences between personality theories center on
which traits or characteristics are the most important.
Multitrait Approach
Some trait research attempts to examine a consumer’s entire personality profi le across a
set of relatively exhaustive dimensions. Specifi cally, multitrait personality theory identi-
fi es several traits that in combination capture a substantial portion of the personality of the
individual. The multitrait theory used most commonly by marketers is the Five-Factor
Model.23 This theory identifi es fi ve basic traits formed by genetics and early learning.
These core traits interact and manifest themselves in behaviors triggered by situations.
Table 10–3 lists the fi ve traits and some of their manifestations.
The Five-Factor Model has proven useful in such areas as understanding bargaining
and complaining behavior 24 and compulsive shopping. 25 There is evidence that it may have
validity across cultures. 26 The advantage of a multitrait approach such as this is the broad
picture it allows of the determinants of behavior. For example, suppose research focused
on the single dimension of extroversion and found that those who complained about a dissatisfactory
purchase tended to be extroverts. What insights does this provide for training
those who deal with consumer complaints? What training insights are added if we also