Re-considering the Big Two

Re-considering the Big Two

Decades of research have utilized variations of the ‘Big Two’ dimensions of person perception, generally tapping into different aspects of warmth (e.g. communion, morality, trustworthiness, femininity) and ability (e.g. competence, agency, dominance, masculinity). It is generally accepted that there are four
distinct facets which make up the Big Two – communion, morality, agency, and competence. Current perspectives assume that these facets are firmly nested under the dimensions of warmth and ability,
respectively; however, there is evidence that each facet explains unique variance in person perception and provides value in understanding different social outcomes. In this project, we investigate whether this assumption is justified, and conclude that agency, competence, and warmth are meaningfully distinct constructs which predict unique outcomes for individuals and groups.