The Definition of Components and the Use of Formal Indexes are Key Steps for a Successful Application of Network Analysis in Personality Psychology

Abstract

Conceiving personality as a network provides an interesting theoretical framework and a promising methodological perspective. The application of network analysis to personality psychology however is not straightforward, and some issues require careful consideration. We argue that the definition of components within networks cannot be limited to single items, and more work is needed to reflect the inherently hierarchical and indefinite nature of components. Additionally, we argue that formal empirical indexes must be clearly defined and consistently used to describe properties of personality networks. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.