ABSTRACT

Almost any conceivable human trait, ability, value, or attitude has its counterpart in the world of psychological measurement. Robinson & Shaver (1973) list over 100 scales for the measurement of almost any conceivable facet of self, leaving out only the more indirect personality measures. This multitude of scales addresses such human qualities as prejudice, religiosity, creativity, and physical development. Commitment can refer to being involved in activities pertinent to any of these highly varied human qualities—meaning, for example, that the person might be a highly vocal racist or a highly active civil rights advocate, or to name another dimension, highly active in weight-reducing or body-building programs. Active individuals, staying within a commonsense view of things, are supposed to be informed about their areas of pursuit, and would also be expected to have relatively accurate insights into their performance, values or physical condition.