Change in Trait Impressions of the Self and Others

This study examined how trait judgments of the self and others change over time. The research question that was addressed was "Do the changes in trait impressions of the self parallel the changes in trait impressions of others?" One hundred and twenty-five college students rated the frequency of change in positive and negative trait impressions of the self and positive and negative trait impressions of others. They also rated the frequency of change in impressions of social traits and ability related traits. Correlational analyses indicated that trait impressions of the self become more positive over time. In contrast, trait impressions of others, particularly social trait judgments, become more negative. The results show that people think worse about the traits of others and think their own traits improve over time, which could have consequences for their relationships.