Individual Differences Research

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Individual Differences Research > Volume 12, Issue 3 (2014) > 79-100

The Incremental Validity of Motive "Traits of Action:" Predicting Behavior Longitudinally

Larry C. Bernard, Andrew Lac

Abstract

A recent multidimensional theory of human motivation proposed that independent dimensions of individual differences - motives or "traits of action" - play a role in purposive behavior (Bernard, Mills, Swenson, & Walsh, 2005; Bernard, 2012). Designed to capture the theory, the QuickAIM is a brief and reliable multidimensional inventory. However, to be considered valid traits of action, the motives should be able to prospectively predict pertinent behaviors and do so either incrementally or independently of personality factors. This is the first longitudinal study to examine this framework. Logistic regression models were used to assess the extent to which QuickAIM motives predicted 28 health-related, self-indulgent, socially valued, and socially discordant behaviors, after accounting for participant sex and all six dimensions of the HEXACO model of personality. QuickAIM motives accounted for significant variance in 21 of 28 behavior criteria. These results are the first to suggest the utility of the motives in predicting future behavior.