Personality and Performance

The Sixteen Personality Factors Questionnaire (16PF) and the Performance Evaluation Report (PER), two survey devices used by the U.S. Naval Academy were critically evaluated. The hypothesis that personality as measured by the 16PF could be used to predict future fleet performance as measured by the PER was investigated. This analysis suggested little that would indicate a relationship between personality and performance as they are measured by the two surveys. Performance and personality could be related, but the important aspects of these qualities perhaps are not being measured by the survey devices. The motive for seeking a predictive relationship was also addressed. Within the context of the Academy's current training program, the discovery of such a predictive relationship would have little benefit in assessing how well the Academy is preparing officers for fleet duties. A job descriptive inventory of junior officers duties, and evaluation of graduates in these areas would better satisfy that purpose. (Author)