Gender Differences in Personality Scores: Implications for Differential Hiring Rates

Personality and Individual Differences, Vol. 50, Issue 1, 2011

University of Alberta School of Business Research Paper No. 2013-447

Posted: 28 May 2013

See all articles by Deborah Powell

Deborah Powell

University of Guelph

Richard D. Goffin

University of Western Ontario - Psychology

Ian R. Gellatly

University of Alberta - Department of Strategic Management and Organization

Date Written: January 1, 2010

Abstract

We investigated the extent to which gender differences in personality test scores used in a personnel selection context are likely to cause differential hiring rates. Participants were candidates (N=572) applying for positions at an oil refinery. Candidates completed both facet-level and broad Five Factor Model (FFM) personality measures. Focusing on the FFM broad traits of Extraversion and Conscientiousness, we found that generally there was less adverse impact when using FFM broad traits as compared to facet-level traits. When facet-level traits were reflective of agency – an underlying need to be autonomous, or communion – a need to be part of a larger social entity, they led to differential hiring rates for men or women. This problem was greatly reduced when using the FFM broad traits. When used for personnel selection, the use of FFM broad traits may help to promote gender diversity in the workplace.

Keywords: Personnel selection, Adverse impact, Five Factor Model, Personality testing

Suggested Citation

Powell, Deborah and Goffin, Richard D. and Gellatly, Ian R., Gender Differences in Personality Scores: Implications for Differential Hiring Rates (January 1, 2010). Personality and Individual Differences, Vol. 50, Issue 1, 2011, University of Alberta School of Business Research Paper No. 2013-447, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=2270699

Deborah Powell (Contact Author)

University of Guelph ( email )

Guelph, Ontario
Canada

Richard D. Goffin

University of Western Ontario - Psychology ( email )

London, Ontario
Canada

Ian R. Gellatly

University of Alberta - Department of Strategic Management and Organization ( email )

Edmonton, Alberta T6G 2R6
Canada

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