Understanding Structure: An Approach/Avoidance Framework

Abstract

The current project was designed to present an in-depth exploration of the two Personal Need for Structure factors, utilizing the quadripolar model of approach and avoidance motivation to present a coherent conceptualization of attitudes and behaviors related to the factors. Specifically, we proposed that the DFS factor would be related to overstriving (high approach/high avoidance) while the RLS factor would be related to failure-avoidance (low approach/high avoidance). We conducted a series of four studies designed to examine our hypotheses. Results demonstrated a consistent relationship between RLS and failure-avoidance, as proposed. However, results for the DFS factor were less straightforward. Implications of the findings for future research utilizing the Personal Need for Structure scale are discussed.