Relationships between biologically-informed reinforcement sensitivity and occupationally-focused high-potential personality traits

Abstract

We compared two measurement models of personality: the biologically-informed Reinforcement Sensitivity Theory Personality Questionnaire (RST-PQ) and the occupationally-focused High Potential Trait Inventory (HPTI). The primary aim was to determine the extent to which the RST-PQ underpins the construct validity of the HPTI. This was achieved by examining the basic motivations of approach, avoidance, and conflict, thus pointing to possible mechanisms as to how HPTI traits may be related to occupational performance. Three hundred and thirty respondents (mean age: 46.5 years), the majority (78%) of whom were employed full-time, were sampled from different countries by a major test publisher. Several statistically significant and theoretically meaningful correlations were found between RST-PQ and HPTI factors (e.g., the positive association of HPTI Conscientiousness and RST-PQ BAS-Goal-drive Persistence). Some sex and age differences were found in both sets of factors. Following zero-order correlational analysis, regression analyses helped further clarify these RST-PQ/HPTI associations. These findings throw empirical light on the relationships of two distinct personality measurement models, with very different origins – specifically, the biological inspiration of the RST-PQ contributes new knowledge as to the construct nature of the HPTI, pointing to viable hypotheses as to how HPTI factors should relate to occupationally-relevant data (e.g., sales performance). In general, the two models may be seen as complementary, each adding unique insights into personality. A study showing how these different factors relate to external criteria is now needed to speak to their respective predictive validities.