Article analysis methods and frameworks

¶ … emergence, persistence, and expression of geographic variation in psychological characteristics," Rentfrow, Gosling & Potter (2008) present an empirical framework for the geography of personality. Working with data gleaned from the United States, the researchers demonstrate the existence and nature of geographic variations in personality and social psychology. Moreover, Rentfrow et al. (2008) present a model that shows how psychological traits vary, where, and why.

Working from the core assumption that geography affects personality in direct and indirect ways, Rentfrow et al. (2008) set out to show which social indicators and specific processes may induce geographic differences. The purpose of the research is to present a model of the geography of personality that bolsters the literature and offers possibilities for practical application. For example, the authors suggest that an understanding of geography of personality can help social workers address issues such as institutionalized racism or public health. Regional differences are described not just in terms of the political boundaries of states . The authors also address geography in terms of climate and other environmental factors.

Noting that the root of research in the field of personality geography rest in anthropology and early psychoanalytic research, Rentfrow et al. (2008) attempt to offer a more detailed and specific understanding of what features in the environment impact what social and psychological characteristics and why. Issues such as selective migration are addressed to acknowledge that many individuals move because they are in search of belonging. In fact, the notion of "fitting in" and its relationship to psychological health and well-being is one that the researchers do take seriously. Social influence and normative behavior as well as environmental influences are also included in the model. For example, if it is considered socially acceptable to be extraverted in one area, then more residents of that region are likely to express gregarious traits.

Rentfrow et al. (2008) present the processes or pathways by which geography influences personality. Personality affects behavior and behavioral norms. Group behaviors in turn impact geographic representation. Social influences and related external factors affect behavioral traits. Institutions within a specific state or region affect behavior. Furthermore, social norms have a strong impact on the development of individual and group-level traits.

The research has several limitations that impact is internal and external validity. For example, the sample was taken from a group of Internet users who responded to an online solicitation for participation in the research. This is a spurious form of sample gathering, and may not be as representative of the population as the researchers would like. One of the most glaring problems with the research is the assumption that state-level characteristics are salient. The authors do not point out differences within states, even ones as large and diverse as California.