Graduation Year
2025
Document Type
Thesis
Degree
M.A.
Degree Name
Master of Arts (M.A.)
Degree Granting Department
Psychology
Major Professor
Steve W. J. Kozlowski, Ph.D.
Committee Member
Stephen Stark, Ph.D.
Committee Member
Joseph Vandello, Ph.D.
Keywords
Achievement Motivation, Goal Orientation, Individual Differences, Motivation, Motivational Taxonomy
Abstract
This thesis investigates the potential for integrating motivational traits into the established approach-avoidance motivational framework, which describes individuals’ general tendencies to seek pleasure and avoid pain. Although various theories and empirical studies have advanced our understanding of approach-avoidance motivation, critical constructs such as achievement motivation and trait anxiety have often been overlooked or misoperationalized. Addressing these gaps, the current study integrates Kanfer and Heggestad’s (1997) motivational trait taxonomy with constructs from achievement goal orientation, regulatory focus theory, and reinforcement sensitivity theory. This research evaluated a hypothesized two-factor model of approach and avoidance motivation using confirmatory and exploratory factor analyses with data from undergraduate students and working adults. Initial results indicated poor model fit, leading to exploratory analysis that revealed clearer factors, including performance anxiety, mastery orientation, performance-prove, behavioral activation, and prevention orientation. Findings demonstrate that approach avoidance was insufficient in capturing the complexity of the examined motivational trait measures. Then, suggestions for construct specification and measurement that may bring a more coherent structure to this trait space are offered.
Scholar Commons Citation
Gardiner, Wesley D., "Integrating Motivational Traits into the Approach-Avoidance Distinction" (2025). USF Tampa Graduate Theses and Dissertations.
https://digitalcommons.usf.edu/etd/10863
