The two main aspects of information in judgements are quantity and quality. 


-  Quantity refers to the amount of information present. More information will likely lead to more accurate judgements. Certain traits, such as openness may require more information compared to others such as extraversion. 

-  Quality describes the value of the information available. The relevance of the situation and the correlation to the trait impact accuracy. Additionally, observing individuals in a weak situation may provide better information compared to a strong situation. 

University of Michigan - Ann Arbor

In personality judgements, a moderator of accuracy is a variable that impacts the correlation between a judgement and its criteria. 


Four primary moderators of accuracy:
-  Properties of the judge
-  Properties of the target 
-  Properties of the trait being judged
-  Information that judgement is based on 

Moderators of Accuracy 

Funder, D. C. (2019). The personality puzzle. New York, NY: W. W. Norton &amp; Company.

The Personality Puzzle

Many properties impact how well a judge can make accurate judgements. Studies have shown that certain traits are more favorable than others when determining how well a judge performs. 

Examples:
-  Extroverted, well-adjusted men are better judges than introverted men
-  Open and independent women are better judges than closed off women
-  Individuals who are generally more positive, warm, and compassionate are better judges
-  Those who rank high on conscientiousness and agreeableness are better judges
-  Those who are more invested in relationships make more accurate judgements

Properties of the Judge

Who is being judge is an important factor when determining accuracy of judgements. Certain traits and behaviors make judgements easier.

Example:
-  Predictable and consistent behaviors
-  More organized and stable 
-  High on extraverted and agreeableness 
-  transparent, open

Properties of the Target

Several properties determine how accurate a judgement is regarding a certain trait. 

Examples:
-  Some traits are easier to judge (talkative or social)
-  Some traits are more visible (easier to see extraversion than emotional stability) 
-  Context of the trait (at a party compared to during a test)

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