Personality dynamics and trait change on the year abroad

Our aims were to (a) investigate personality change as a function of context (abroad vs. at-home), (b) examine short- (state), medium- (facet), and longer-term (trait) personality variability, and (c) explore linkages between state dynamics and trait change over one year. 180 students from 10 universities were either at-home or living abroad across 32 destinations. Big Five traits were assessed termly; select facet-level traits monthly. Experience sampling was used to capture momentary responses. While sojourners became more agreeable, curious, and less anxious than non-sojourners, widespread change was not observed. Among the modelled personality dynamics indices (mean states, relative SDs, situation contingencies), mean states were the most consistent predictors of trait change, suggesting state-like trait manifestations play a role in personality development.