Action-state orientation: Construct validity of a revised measure and its relationship to work-related variables

Data from 6 studies OY = 945) were combined to examine the factor structure and construct validity ofJ Kuhl's (1994a) measure of action-state orientat ion, the Action Control Scale (ACS). Initial confirmatory factor analysis ( CFA) of 4 models showed poor fit with the data. items that did not perform well were dropped, and the 4 CFA models were retested resulting in support for a 3-factor solution corresponding to the Preoccupation, Hesitation, and Volatility subscales. Regression analyses demonstrated that the revised AC S subscales measure a construct distinct from cognitive ability and persona lity. The revised subscales showed differential statistically significant r elationships with (a) self-regulatory and self-focus variables and Co) job attitudes and ratings of job performance. The authors conclude that action- state orientation is a construct relevant to applied settings and that futu re research should further examine this construct.