The Development of the Unified Human Dynamics Framework Instrument (UHDF-I): An Exploratory Factor Analysis and Reliability Analysis

Date of Award

2024

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Organization Development & Change (D.O.D.C.)

Department

Organization Development

First Advisor

Steven Cady (Committee Chair)

Second Advisor

Lubomir Popov (Other)

Third Advisor

Truit Gray (Committee Member)

Fourth Advisor

Jeanelle Sears (Committee Member)

Abstract

Personality psychology, which focuses on understanding individual orientation, traits, and attribution style, provides critical insights into organizational behavior and performance. This study begins with a rigorous review of foundational theories, ensuring quality, clarity, transparency, and methodological rigor. Specifically, it examines behavioral orientation, personality traits, and attribution style to lay the groundwork for developing the Unified Human Dynamics Framework Instrument (UHDF-I) through exploratory factor analysis. This dissertation aims to achieve two primary objectives: 1) deepen understanding of behavioral orientation, traits, and attribution style constructs; and 2) create the Unified Human Dynamics Framework Instrument (UHDF-I), integrating 11 diverse constructs into a cohesive framework to elucidate human personality dynamics. The validity and reliability of the UHDF-I were established through exploratory factor analysis (EFA). A preliminary EFA using principal component analysis with Varimax rotation supported the development of an 11-factor structure for the UHDF-I. The UHDF-I integrates 11 constructs: task and relationship orientation; Machiavellianism; narcissism; psychopathy; sadism; faith in humanity; Kantianism; humanism traits; and internal and external locus of control attributions. Initially comprising 290 items, including 13 for honesty, attention, and redundancy measures, these were refined to 44 items (4 per factor) following EFA to eliminate non-loading, poorly loading, or cross-loading items above an Eigenvalue of .3. The Unified Human Dynamics Framework Instrument (UHDF-I) offers comprehensive and empirically validated insights into fundamental personality characteristics. By integrating multiple constructs, it provides a robust framework to enhance understanding of how individuals and groups connect, motivate each other, and interact across various life and work domains. Utilizing the UHDF-I has the potential to optimize employee relationships, foster strategic organizational learning, facilitate effective communications, promote cohesive teamwork, and enhance organizational transformation and effectiveness.

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