Is Extraversion a Universal Path to Creativity? The Moderating Role of Artistic Context

This study investigates the moderating role of artistic domains—visual (painting) and performing (theater)—in the relationship between extraversion and creativity. Drawing upon the Trait Activation Theory, we hypothesize that the influence of extraversion on creativity is context dependent. A total of 126 artists (75 painters and 51 theater performers) participated in the study. Extraversion was measured using the BFI-2 extraversion subscale, while creativity was assessed using the verbal creativity test (TKV) and figural creativity test (TKF). Moderation analysis using Hayes’ PROCESS Model 1 revealed that extraversion significantly predicted verbal creativity, and this effect was moderated by the type of art practiced. Specifically, extraversion positively predicted creativity among theater artists but not among painters. No significant effects were found in TKF. These findings emphasize the importance of contextualizing personality–creativity links, especially in artistic education and talent development. Implications for personalized arts pedagogy and further research directions are discussed.