Personality correlates of motivation in the art and science domains: the bright- and dark-side trait perspective

In all, 2083 adults indicated their interest in, and motivation for, aesthetic and scientific activities using the Motives, Values, and Preferences Inventory (MVPI). They also completed a bright-side (Hogan Personality Inventory: HPI) and dark-side (Hogan Development Survey: HDS) measure. The aim was to examine age, sex and personality trait correlates of interest in the arts vs sciences. Correlations indicated that the bright-side trait Inquisitive (Openness/Curiosity) was highly correlated with both Arts and Science preferences; with the dark-side trait Imaginative (Schizotypal) being associated with Arts preferences and trait Learning Approach with Science preferences. Two hierarchical regressions (demographics, bright-side, dark-side personality) indicated that, after demographics, bright-side variables could account for 21 % of the variance for arts but 33 % for the sciences. A preference for the arts was associated with low Adjustment and Prudence, as well as being high on Colourful and Imaginative while a science preference was associated with high Inquisitiveness, Learning Approach and Boldness. These findings may inform vocational guidance and personality- based career development strategies.