Abstract

The idea that personality is vital to understanding human behavior captured the attention of life-span researchers during the last half of the twentieth century. During this time, some researchers focused attention on relatively stable aspects of the broad construct of personality while others focused on those that were not. The complexity of determining continuity, change, and development within and between individuals has led to a myriad of studies and a multitude of findings. In this chapter, we provide an overview of personality research by relying on a comprehensive framework called the six-foci model of personality (Hooker & McAdams, 2003). We will highlight key linkages between personality and quality of life outcomes while also emphasizing the potential for personality growth during the second half of life.