conscientiousness

n. Conscientiousnes is one of the dimensions of the five factor model. It contrasts individuals who are methodical, persevering, and goal-oriented with those who are disorderly, careless, and unambitious. It has proactive and inhibitive aspects. Proactive traits stress the hard-working and sustained pursuit of goals, a high need for achievement. Inhibitive traits show a self-disciplined control of impulses and the environment; conscientiousness people are guided by a strong sense of duty and a need for order. Considered as an aspect of character, conscientiousness is associated with a strong will, scrupulousness, and responsibility. However, conscientiousness is not merely an evaluation; it is a consensually validated trait that is in large part heritable.

- RRM