An Empirical Study On Personality Identification Through Handwritten Signature Analysis Among College Students In Bangalore

Abstract

Graphology, the study of handwriting to infer personality, has long been controversial due to contradicting scientific data. Despite the fact that thorough research on signatures is still sparse, particularly in non- western contexts, these deliberate and persistent self- expressions may offer distinctive insights on personality. This study examines the connections between nine trademark signature traits and NEO-Five Factor Inventory personality domains in Bangalore college students. A sample of 117 individuals between the ages of 18- 26 completed the NEO- Five Factor Inventory. A defined procedure was used to code signature features, such as curved start, ending stroke, shell signature, middle stroke, underlining, upper stroke, slant, letter connections, and baseline directions. To test associations, Spearman’s rank correlations were computed. Moderate but significant correlations were found. Extraversion had a negative correlation with baseline direction and end stroke and a positive correlation with underlining use. Neuroticism had a negative correlation with upper stroke and a positive correlation with shell signature. Curved start was negatively correlated with conscientiousness. There were no significant correlations between agreeableness and openness. The findings provide limited support for graphological validations, with effect sizes comparable with meta- analytic data supporting some signature- personality relationships. When employed, signature- based personality assessment should only be used as an add-on to more comprehensive assessment frameworks.