title: Features of multifinality.
abstract: Diverse facets of the multifinality configuration in goal-directed behavior are identified and empirically explored. The multifinality construct denotes a motivational structure wherein a single means is linked to several ends. A multifinality configuration maximizes value that a given means promises to deliver while sacrificing expectancy of attainment due to a dilution effect. Several phenomena implied by multifinality theory are investigated, including an unconscious quest for multifinal means, the constraints that such quest imposes on means to a focal goal, and structural conditions under which an activity may be experienced as intrinsically motivated. Multifinality phenomena appear in numerous domains of social cognition, and the present theory offers a novel perspective on classic motivational effects.
authors.affiliation: University of Maryland, Rockville, MD 20742, USA. kruglanski@gmail.com
authors.forename: Arie W
authors.initials: AW
authors.lastname: Kruglanski
authors.forename: Catalina
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Köpetz
authors.forename: Jocelyn J
authors.initials: JJ
authors.lastname: Bélanger
authors.forename: Woo Young
authors.initials: WY
authors.lastname: Chun
authors.forename: Edward
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Orehek
authors.forename: Ayelet
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Fishbach
mesh_terms: D002755:Choice Behavior; D006040:Goals; D006801:Humans; D009042:Motivation; D011582:Psychological Theory