Using a Multidimensional Pairwise Preference Measure of Personality to Predict Training Success of Air Traffic Control Specialists

Abstract

Studies have shown that cognitive ability relates to success in training as an air traffic control specialist (ATCS). The relationship between measures of personality and success in ATCS training is less clear. An area of concern is that personality tests are susceptible to faking and that job applicants may respond in a socially desirable manner to increase their odds of being hired (Paulhus, 2002). Personality measures that use a multidimensional pairwise preference item format tend to be fake-resistant (Underhill, Bearden, & Chen, 2008), leading to renewed interest in the use of personality assessments in personnel hiring. We report an initial assessment of one such measure, the Tailored Adaptive Personality Assessment System-Federal Aviation Administration for predicting success of ATCS trainees in Academy training. We found personality facets to account for an additional three to four percent of the variance in training success of individuals over a measure of cognitive ability.