Personality traits and the trajectory of depression: a longitudinal study on the Chinese youth population

The relationship between depression and personality traits has been a central focus of psychological research. However, investigations into how personality traits, particularly the Big Five traits, influence the trajectory of depression are limited. This study aims to investigate the role of personality traits in the trajectory of depression among Chinese youth. Using data from the China Family Panel Studies for 2016, 2018, and 2020, we analyzed a sample of 4,999 individuals aged 16–35 years. The findings indicate that individuals with higher levels of conscientiousness and agreeableness tend to start with lower levels of depression, although these traits do not seem to affect the rate at which depression progresses. In contrast, those with stronger extraversion traits not only present lower initial depression levels but also experience a slower increase in depression over time. Conversely, individuals with a tendency toward neuroticism show higher initial depression levels and a more rapid worsening of symptoms over time. The study also revealed that the openness trait does not significantly influence either the initial level or the trajectory of depression. These results highlight the need for greater awareness of how personality traits impact the trajectory of depression among youth within communities, schools, and families. Additionally, the findings underscore the importance of enhanced mental health monitoring and early intervention strategies, particularly for young individuals with neurotic tendencies, to reduce the prevalence of depression in this population.