Influence of physical fitness on second- and third-order personality factors using orthogonal and oblique rotations

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Abstract
The relationship between physical fitness and personality variables at 2nd- and 3rd-order factor-analytic structures was investigated. Further, the stability of the factor structures at pre- and post-physical fitness program tests was examined by orthogonal and oblique rotations. Physical fitness and personality data were collected on 56 middle-aged males. The fitness and personality variables were factor analyzed and rotated orthogonally and obliquely by the principal axis form of solution. As a result, 5 2nd-order factors were extracted, both initially and finally. Factor scores were estimated for each subject on each of the 2nd-order factors, and data were factor analyzed to extract the 3rd-order factors. The 2nd-order factors closely resembled Cattell''s factors, but subtle differences were found to exist between initial and final factor structures that may have been due to the influence of the fitness program. Two 3rd-order factors were extracted initially and 3 finally when the factor scores were rotated orthogonally and obliquely, and physical fitness was associated with 2 of these hierarchical factors both initially and finally. The hierarchical factor structures appeared to be comparable to the scales of Eysenck. The problem of rotation was not of importance and scientifically uninteresting and that the hierarchical factor solutions were highly stable. The hierarchical levels of personality were apparently manifested in 2 syndromes confounded by traits and states of personality. These 2 syndromes are Introversion vs. Extraversion and Neuroticism vs. Stability. The extraction of additional factors, such as Low Superego Strength vs. High Superego Strength was completely dependent upon the treatment or conditions superimposed.