Abstract

In this review, we examined the recent literature corroborating the generality of the three typologies of Resilient, Overcontrolled, and Undercontrolled (i.e. the RUO typologies) in describing individual personality, using measures of the Big Five factors of personality. The theoretical roots of the three typologies are delineated with special attention to classical person approach. Finally, we discuss the theoretical and heuristic value of typologies, critically evaluating empirical proofs sustaining the temporal stability and the replicability across different samples and cultures of the three typologies. The role of typological approaches within the contemporary debate on the objectives of personality psychology is discussed.