Elements of Neuroticism in Relation to Items of Mental and Somatic Content

Abstract

This study assessed relations of thinking with depression within Neuroticism items as suggested by Guilford. The sample of 600 university students were 300 men and 300 women. “Thinking” was measured by 12 items referring to mental or cognitive activity and contrasted with 11 items referring to somatic or physiological activity, selected from the Neuroticism scales of Forms A and B of the Eysenck Personality Inventory. “Depression,” in contrast to “nervousness,” was measured by a 10-item scale by Eysenck. A chi-square indicating scores on mentalistic and depressive items were significantly associated. Several items hinted that an absence of mentation may be associated with depression.