The generalized approach, attainMent, maintenance, and avoidance (GAMMA) motivation scale: development, validation, and theoretical contribution

In this investigation, the Generalized Approach, attainMent, Maintenance, and Avoidance (GAMMA) Motivation Scale was developed and validated. This scale measures approach and avoidance motivation in any domain of goal pursuit, thus overcoming the limitations of past domain-specific measures. Perhaps more importantly, it can distinguish maintenance from attainment forms of approach motivation. It was initially developed in a large sample reporting on a relatively heterogeneous sample of goals. Its factor structure was refined and confirmed in three samples reporting on healthy-eating, social-relationship, and academic-achievement goals, respectively. It is internally-consistent and its relationships with measures of domain-specific motivation, BIS/BAS, affective traits, motivational constructs from other theories, and successful goal pursuit all support its construct validity across domains. We therefore suggest that the GAMMA Motivation Scale is a useful tool for understanding and researching approach, avoidance, and maintenance motivation.