Five-factor personality traits as predictors of intercultural sensitivity among Turkish preservice teachers

Abstract

The aim of this study is to examine the relationships between the five-factor personality traits and intercultural sensitivity among Turkish preservice teachers. The participants of this study were 1218 college students enrolled at a university located in the central Black Sea Region of Turkiye. The participants were selected using a convenience sampling method. The preservice teachers responded to a survey comprising the Personal Information Form, Intercultural Sensitivity Scale, and Quick Big Five Personality Scale. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson product-moment correlation analysis, multiple linear regression analysis, and relative importance analysis. The results of this study showed that preservice teachers with stronger personality traits of agreeableness, extraversion, emotional stability, and openness to new experiences tend to have higher levels of intercultural sensitivity. Moreover, results of relative importance analyses revealed that agreeableness is the most important predictor of intercultural sensitivity among preservice teachers whereas emotional stability was found to be the least important predictor. The findings of this study can help to determine personality traits related to intercultural sensitivity among preservice teachers.