City Research Online

Abstract

Reinforcement Sensitivity Theory (RST) and Self-Determination Theory (SDT) are two well-known theoretical frameworks in the fields of personality and motivation. Despite their rich histories, they have not yet been studied together. Here we examine their empirical relationships with special emphasis on the behavioural approach system (BAS) of RST. Based on a community sample of 314 participants, our study examined relationships between: (1) RST-related personality factors of the RST-PQ and SPSRQ-20 questionnaires; and (2) the Aspiration Index for goal-orientation within SDT. Regression analyses revealed that BAS factors explained intrinsic and extrinsic goals, whereas the defensive behavioural inhibition system (BIS) and the fight-flight-freeze system (FFFS) did not. Furthermore, BAS scales differentially predicted intrinsic and extrinsic classes of goals, which suggests their unique effects should be considered when attempting to provide a theoretical account of human motivation within the RST framework.

Publication Type:	Article
Additional Information:	© 2020. This manuscript version is made available under the CC-BY-NC-ND 4.0 license http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/
Publisher Keywords:	intrinsic and extrinsic goals, self-determination theory, reinforcement sensitivity theory, motivation, aspiration
Subjects:	B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology R Medicine > RC Internal medicine > RC0321 Neuroscience. Biological psychiatry. Neuropsychiatry
Departments:	School of Health & Psychological Sciences > Psychology
SWORD Depositor:	Symplectic Administrator

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