Is mind-mindedness trait-like or a quality of close relationships? Evidence from descriptions of significant others, famous people, and works of art.

•The nature of the mind-mindedness construct was investigated.•Adults’ mind-minded descriptions of significant others correlate positively.•Mind-minded descriptions of significant others are unrelated to those of famous people/paintings.•Mind-mindedness appears not to be a trait-like quality.•These findings may help inform our understanding of theory of mind in adulthood.