While countries show differences in their average level of personality traits, says UC Davis personality expert Richard Robins in a new Science magazine article, stereotypes about these differences in national character do not correspond.

In his "Perspective" overview of current research findings regarding the nature of personality, Robins, a professor of psychology, looks at the interplay among genes, culture and national culture.

He says research has determined that personality traits predict most of the outcomes that truly matter in life: health and mortality, academic success, job performance, the capacity to have a successful and lasting romantic relationship, and a wide range of personal and societal problems, including drug abuse and criminality.

More research, he says, "is particularly critical at this time, as countries around the world adapt to globalization, experience a 'clash of civilizations,' and cope with other social changes related to intercultural understanding (and misunderstanding)."

Robins discusses findings that cultures differ somewhat in overall personality levels but those differences are not accurately reflected in stereotypes about national character.

National stereotypes are inaccurate, he says, explaining that there is a core to human mentality and social behavior that cuts across nations, cultures and ethnic groups.

Robins also points to the genetic factors that provide constraints on the way a child develops, accounting for an estimated 50 percent of the variability in personality in typical populations and environments.

"Personality traits have a strong genetic foundation, are highly stable over time, and predict important societal outcomes, including health and occupational success," Robins says.

He is the author of more than 50 journal articles on various aspects of personality.