When you travel or move, some places feel like home instantly while others remain foreign and unwelcoming. In a recent article, writer Charlotte Grainger delves into how a place can impact its residents and shape their identities.
Experts like Dr. Jameca Woody Cooper highlight the crucial role of the environment in developing personality traits. The researchers have mapped the Big Five personality traits across different regions, offering a unique insight into the collective vibe of cities and towns. “By combining users’ Big Five scores with their IP address, we were able to map out personality trends across various regions”, says Megan Malone, content manager at Truity.
But how exactly does the environment influence personality? Let’s dive deeper.
Home, environment, and identity
“Our sense of home is more than just a physical space; it’s a psychological construct deeply intertwined with our personalities”, explains Dr. Woody Cooper. The familiar sights, sounds, and smells of home provide a sense of security and stability that shapes how we perceive the world.
Cities like Dayton, Ohio—known for high agreeableness—tend to produce individuals who are cooperative and empathetic. Conversely, Cincinnati’s high extraversion levels may foster outgoing and sociable personalities.
Dr. Max Doshay notes: “Growing up in an area with high levels of agreeableness can help you develop a community-oriented mindset”. The influence of these regional trends becomes ingrained in our personalities, often without us realizing it.
At the heart of every community is the family, and your immediate family environment plays a vital role in your personality. Positive family dynamics can nurture qualities like openness and emotional stability, while chaotic or neglectful environments may lead to anxiety or distrust. These early experiences shape our inner cognitive frameworks, influencing how we interpret the world and develop within the community.
Another important factor is economic stability or the lack of it. This can cause “increased stress and anxiety, affecting personality traits like emotional stability and optimism”, according to Dr. Doshay. On the other hand, regions with thriving economies allow residents to focus on personal growth.
Specific industries also tend to attract certain personality types. For example, tech hubs like San Jose—known for low agreeableness—draw more analytical and introverted individuals.
Finding a community that reflects who you are
The idea of finding a community that matches your personality is more than just a desire. People often gravitate toward places that align with their traits. “People who score high in agreeableness often prefer calmer, less crowded areas”, explains Malone. Similarly, those with high openness may seek out cosmopolitan cities where new experiences are abundant. Understanding these trends can help you find environments where you thrive.
The environment shapes us in ways we often overlook. From the towns where we grow up to the socio-economic dynamics we navigate, our surroundings profoundly influence our personality. Whether consciously or not, we’re drawn to communities that reflect who we are, finding comfort in the shared traits and values of “our people”.