Personal Need for Structure

Question 1

Why do we prefer to structure our world in often “simpler” ways

Answer 1

1. Uses less cognitive resources
   -Cognitive Misers/ frugal with our thinking
2. Structuring our world gives us meaning and alleviates anxiety

Question 2

High PNS individuals

Answer 2

-Don’t like uncertainty or routine interruptions
-Organization
-Black and White
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Question 3

Low PNS individuals

Answer 3

-Do like being spontaneous
-like unpredictable situations
-things that are ambiguous are more appealing
-shades of grey
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Question 4

Measuring

Question 5

PNS and other Traits

Answer 5

Both PNS factors negatively correlate with Openness to Experience

Desire for structure positively correlates with Conscientousness

Response to lack of structure is positively correlated with Neuroticism and negatively correlated with Extraversion

No significant relationship with Agreeableness

PNS only minimally negatively correlated with intelligence.

Question 6

Stereotyping and PNS

Answer 6

Overgeneralized BELIEFS about a member of a group which can lead to prejudice or discrimination. Can be positive or negative. Often incorrect and biased.

Study Neuberg and Newson:
IV : Richard vs Michelle
DV: Traits relevant to traditional female stereotypes
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Question 7

PNS and Mortality Salience

Answer 7

MS will affect those higher in PNS via augmentation of seeking a highly structured clear and coherent view of the world.

Abstract art can be a meaning threat.

High PNS rated the abstract pieces the least favorable.

Lower PNS respond to MS by seeking novelty.