Higher-order factors in a five-factor personality inventory and its relation to social desirability

This paper compared two higher-order factor models using a 100-item, five-factor personality inventory originating from the IPIP database. The sample consisted of 2,019 subjects tested on the Internet. The two models were compared using confirmatory factor analysis. The two-factor model showed a similar fit to the data. The criteria for parsimony favored a hierarchical model with one higher-order factor at the top and five personality factors beneath. The single higher-order factor was found to be related to social desirability in a subsample of 196 subjects.