Neuroticism, Extraversion and Slow Brain Potentials

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Abstract
Peak amplitude and area under the curve of average vertex slow potentials, recorded during the foreperiod of a reaction time [RT] task, discriminated between high- and low-neuroticism [human] subjects [Ss], defined according to the Eysenck Personality Inventory. High-neuroticism Ss developed smaller peak amplitude, greater area and longer RT, presenting a high extinction rate when the imperative stimulus was omitted. Differences between extraverts and introverts were found within the low-neuroticism group and for area values, extraverts exhibiting larger area. A significant interaction effect of extraversion and neuroticism on slow-potential parameters was evidenced. Results were interpreted in terms of heightened arousal and disrupted focused attention in high-neuroticism Ss. Different aspects of overt behavior were associated diversely with slow-potential parameters.