Personality and Workaholism

Abstract

This study examined how a range of contemporary models of personality were associated with Workaholism (Feeling driven to work and Enjoyment of work). Approach, avoidance, addictive personality, Agreeableness, Openness, and Conscientiousness were measured using instruments of the Big Five, Eysenck's biosocial model (1967), and two versions of Reinforcement Sensitivity Theory. Data were collected using online questionnaires in two studies. The first comprised 476 fulltime workers from Australia, while the second comprised 105 managers from the US. Results showed that approach pathways were associated with Enjoyment of work and avoidance pathways were generally associated with Feeling driven to work in fulltime workers only. Workaholism was not related to an addictive personality. The study provides a new understanding of how personality is associated with Workaholism. Managerial implications and differences in relations between personality and Workaholism in workers and managers are discussed.