According to the five-factor personality model, which trait represents emotional instability?

Neuroticism is the trait within the five-factor personality model that specifically represents emotional instability. Individuals who score high in neuroticism tend to experience a range of negative emotions, such as anxiety, sadness, and irritability. This emotional volatility can lead to difficulty in coping with stress and may manifest in behaviors such as mood swings or heightened sensitivity to stressors.

In contrast, the other traits in the model focus on different aspects of personality. Extraversion relates to sociability and assertiveness, openness concerns creativity and willingness to try new experiences, and conscientiousness is related to dependability and organization. These traits do not encapsulate the emotional instability aspect that neuroticism addresses. By understanding these distinctions, one can better appreciate how neuroticism plays a critical role in determining an individual's emotional landscape and overall psychological wellness.