Virtues as Properly Motivated, Self-integrated Traits

Abstract

We begin by discussing the elements of properly assessed virtue traits that we are studying, including proper motivation, self-integration, continuity over time, and behavioral manifestation. We are documenting the virtues of kindness and fairness with experience sampling, experimental, and interview methods to test 19 hypotheses. Our initial study is an experimental test of whether trait kindness predicts behavioral helping behavior. We will present the results of this study. The primary study uses experience sampling methods (ESM) to assess kind and fair behavior over a 14-day period, with four assessments per day. Each assessment contains multiple measures of behavior, motivation, self-integration, and situational variables. The ESM study will assess the “traitness” of kindness and fairness by examining consistency over time, individual differences, and the degree of integration of behavior, motivation, and self-processes. We are currently pilot testing the measures for this study. Primary sample data collection begins in June. Following this study, we will select 10 extreme cases for narrative interviews on kindness and fairness. Our final study is an experimental test of whether trait fairness predicts behavioral fairness. In terms of timeline, we added two studies necessary to fulfill our objectives, which we will describe. We are slightly behind schedule with the ESM study, but we will complete the project on time. We will report on our very positive experience with deep integration that is built on the long-standing relationship between the Principal Investigators. Our biggest challenge is that Professor Cokelet is leaving the University of Miami. We have three forms of deliverables at this point. We have conducted two research workshops at the University of Miami (intensive longitudinal research and interdisciplinary research). We have a Psychology Today blog entitled “Questions of Character.” We have a national conference presentation of our kindness experiment scheduled for August, 2016.