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Verified by Psychology Today

Agreeableness is a personality trait that can be described as cooperative, polite, kind, and friendly. People high in agreeableness are more trusting, affectionate, altruistic, and generally displaying more prosocial behaviors than others. People high in this prosocial trait are particularly empathetic, showing great concern for the welfare of others, they are the first to help those in need. Agreeableness is one of five dimensions of personality described as the Big Five. The other traits are openness to experience, conscientiousness, extraversion, and neuroticism.

The Likeable and Agreeable Individual
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When a person is high in this personality trait, they are less me-centric and more we-centric. They look for the common good in others, are quick to hear out opinions of the people around them, and look for harmony instead of discord.

How do I know if I am high in agreeableness?

The agreeable don’t insult others, nor do they question a person’s motives or intentions. They also don’t think that they are better than others. Everyone is their equal, and they are quick to empathize and respect others.

How does a disagreeable person act?

The less amenable and more combative person, however, is more inclined to be manipulative, callous, aggressive, and competitive. They don’t care much about other people, make disparaging or offending comments, have little patience, and are easily irked and annoyed.

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Why Being Agreeable Matters
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These people seem to be happier and more satisfied with life when compared with the less agreeable. In general, the agreeable complain less, don’t belittle others, don’t cause trouble or conflict, don’t tend toward perfectionism, are less rigid, score low in the Dark Triad and other malevolent traits, prefer harmony, are more trusting and forgiving.

Is agreeableness genetic?

This trait is influenced by genetics to a degree, but nurture does have an impact as well. This trait is malleable and people do become more agreeable over time. Older people are generally more likely to go with the flow of life.

Are agreeable people more likely to experience placebo effects?

Agreeable and resilient people are more likely to have their pain soothed by a placebo. Neurotic people, on the other hand, are less likely to benefit. During a painful experience, agreeable and resilient people show more activity in a brain region presumed to suppress pain.

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