neuroticism

(psychology) A neurotic condition, character, or trait.

A personality trait that is usually described by a continuum from complete instability to complete stability (the neuroticism-stability continuum). Generally, neurotics tend to be more easily aroused than stable individuals and may become over-aroused in stressful situations such as a competition. The degree of neuroticism a person exhibits is complex and is dependent on factors peculiar to each situation.