Relating four dimensions of approach-avoidance to affect using latent profile analysis

Abstract

This study explored how individuals can be sub-grouped based on similar patterns of a four-dimensional model of approach-avoidance motivation and positive/negative affect. Latent profile analysis (LPA) was conducted in a sample of 488 individuals in three stages. First, we identified and described six subgroups of individuals with similar patterns of approach-avoidance (approach-oriented, avoidance-oriented, reward prone, punishment-prone, hyposensitive, and hypersensitive). Second, we identified and described four subgroups of individuals with similar patterns of positive and negative affect (anxious, emotional, apathetic, and content). Finally, LPA was used to model approach-avoidance and affect simultaneously to examine the correspondence between patterns of approach-avoidance and patterns of affect. The findings support the view that patterns of positive emotional expressions are associated with profiles of approach motivation and that patterns lacking positive emotions are associated with profiles of avoidance motivation.