Hello
A new paper on
Gray's RST theory is just out - a really excellent piece of both theoretical and
empirically-guided work ...a must-read for any personality researcher ...
Smillie, L.D.,
Pickering, A.D., and Jackson, C.J. (2006) The new Reinforcement Sensitivity
Theory: implications for personality measurement. Personality and Social
Psychology Review, 10, 4, 320-335.
Abstract
In this article, we
review recent modifications to Jeffrey Gray’s (1973, 1991) reinforcement
sensitivity theory (RST), and attempt to draw implications for psychometric
measurement of personality traits. First, we consider Gray and McNaughton’s
(2000) functional revisions to the biobehavioral systems of RST. Second, we
evaluate recent clarifications relating to interdependent effects that these
systems may have on behavior, in addition to or in place of separable effects
(e.g., Corr, 2001; Pickering, 1997). Finally, we consider ambiguities regarding
the exact trait dimension to which Gray’s “reward system” corresponds. From this
review, we suggest that future work is needed to distinguish psychometric
measures of (a) fear from anxiety and (b) reward- reactivity from trait
impulsivity.We also suggest, on the basis of interdependent system views of RST
and associated exploration using formal models, that traits that are based upon
RST are likely to have substantial intercorrelations. Finally, we advise that
more substantive work is required to define relevant constructs and behaviors in
RST before we can be confident in our psychometric measures of them.
Regards .. Paul
___________________________________________________
Paul Barrett
Mob: +64-021-415625