In the context of personality psychology, what does "neuroticism" refer to?

Neuroticism refers to a predisposition to experience negative emotions such as anxiety, sadness, irritability, and emotional instability. It is one of the five major personality traits outlined in the Five Factor Model (also known as the Big Five). Individuals high in neuroticism are more likely to react negatively to stressors and may view situations as more threatening or overwhelming compared to those with lower levels of this trait. This characteristic can lead to difficulties in coping with everyday challenges and can affect one's overall mental health and well-being. Understanding neuroticism helps psychologists predict behaviors, emotional responses, and how individuals interact with their environment. The other options describe traits or concepts that do not accurately capture the essence of neuroticism; for instance, emotional stability is associated with the opposite of neuroticism, and extroversion and interpersonal relationships are related but distinct constructs within personality theory.