Every person is born with a unique personality, but even so, all of us possess a combination of the same basic characteristics – honesty, sociability, friendliness, and most importantly, conscientiousness.
Though the other characteristics may be directly recognizable in a person, whether or not someone is conscientious is something that only a selected few can know. And that’s because conscientiousness is the inner trait of organizing, controlling one’s desires, and living by the rules.
Dr. Páraic Ó Súilleabháin says that personality traits are one of the key factors for promoting a healthy and long life. Among others, conscientiousness’ impact on health is noteworthy.
Allow us to show you why.
Conscientiousness and long-life
Studies show that consuming less alcohol, smoking less and mindful eating are all conscientiousness behaviors. And it’s a fact that someone who’s not troubled by vices like smoking and drinking and who sticks to a healthy diet is expected to live longer.
Research has also established that even after modifying inherent behaviors and education, some people fall short on the conscientiousness scale and show signs of an early passing. Additionally, conscientiousness people are known to possess lower IL-6 levels (hormone extremely active in inflammation) and contribute to their health.
Even though scientists understand that conscientiousness promotes long-term health, a direct cause-and-effect relationship hasn’t been established yet. Numerous colleges like the University of Limerick, West Virginia University, Humboldt University, and Florida State University are researching to figure out more links between the two.
Connection with incendiary biomarkers
The Midlife in the United States (MIDUS) investigated the links between personality traits, IL-6, and the danger of mortality by conducting a study on 957 adults. A series of questions were presented to the participants and mapped their responses on a four-point Likert scale. They were later evaluated using the Midlife Development Inventory Personality Scales. To measure the levels of IL-6 and CRP, the scientists took blood samples from the participants. Also, they noted their distinguishing characteristics, including age, gender, race, chronic conditions, medications, and physical activity.
The examination showed that every standard deviation of advanced conscientiousness related to a 35% lower death danger. However, it was also found that CRP doesn’t act as an intermediary between conscientiousness and death risk.
Study restrictions
Though the study was quite enlightening, many questions were left unanswered, like other underlying personality sides’ effect on biological markers and conscientiousness. Scientists concluded that focusing on certain causes of death among a large group can show how specific causes could be linked to the earlier discoveries.
Read – How Your Personality Can Affect Your Health
Final thoughts
Conscientious people have a natural inclination towards well-being. They likewise move life toward better psychosocial conditions like more steady positions and relationships. Now that you know how health and longevity are affected by this personality trait, we suggest you practice it for a good future.