The bright and dark side of achievement motivation

This study looked at personality trait and sub-clinical personality disorder correlates of self-rated motivation for Recognition, Power and overall Achievement. In two studies, over 4000 adult participants completed a battery of tests including a 'bright side' personality trait measure (HPI); a 'dark-side'/disorders measure (HDS), and a measure of Motives and Values (MVPI) which included Recognition and Power. Analysis was done at the subscale level as well as the higher order (domain) level with bright side personality being categorised as Alpha and Beta and dark side personality as Moving Away, Against and Towards Others. The two studies showed similar results: for all three criteria variables the strongest correlates were the dark-side variables, particularly Boldness (Narcissism), and the higher order factor Moving Against Others. Implications for the selection and management of Achievement Oriented people in a business are considered. Limitations and future directions of this research are also noted.

Automated summary

The two studies showed that dark-side personality traits, particularly Boldness (Narcissism), and the higher order factor Moving Against Others, had the strongest correlations with self-rated motivation for Recognition, Power, and overall Achievement.