When What You Want is Not What You Get: Motivational Correlates of Interpersonal Problems in Clinical and Nonclinical Samples

Abstract

Current interpersonal theory and research considers motives and goals as important determinants of interpersonal functioning. In this article we examine the relationships between goals and interpersonal problems. In a survey with clinical and nonclinical samples we analyze the associations of two goal types (approach and avoidance goals) and two goal dimensions (goal intensity and goal satisfaction) with diverse interpersonal problems. We specify the relationships of goals with interpersonal problems by locating the goals in the interpersonal space via their correlations with the Dominance and Love dimensions of the interpersonal circle. Intensity and satisfaction of approach– and avoidance–goal scales can be reliably localized in the interpersonal space across samples. The findings contribute to the continuous revision of the interpersonal model and their implications for psychotherapeutic practice are discussed.