Tool-Description

The Aspiration Index (AI) is a tool developed to measure personal aspirations and goals across various areas of life. Based on individuals’ responses, the tool evaluates their priorities and ambitions in areas such as health, career success, relationships, personal growth, and social contribution.
The AI was designed to examine an individual’s intrinsic and extrinsic values. Intrinsic values are more related to personal development and well-being, while extrinsic values are associated with external rewards like money, fame, or recognition.

Analysis and Use

The analysis of AI data helps to understand how a person’s personal aspirations are linked to their overall psychological well-being. Some key steps in analyzing AI data include:
Data Collection: Data is gathered through questionnaires, where participants rate the importance of various priorities and values in different life areas. Each question corresponds to one of the central domains of the AI.
Data Categorization: The responses of participants are categorized into intrinsic and extrinsic values. Further analysis can explore the relationship between these values and psychological factors like life satisfaction, stress, or depression.
Statistical Analysis: To understand the relationships between different variables, tools such as regression analysis, correlation analysis, and significance tests can be applied. Researchers may investigate whether intrinsic values lead to greater well-being, while extrinsic values might correlate with stress or pressure.

Goals

The main goals of the Aspiration Index include:
Understanding Values and Motivations: The AI helps analyze which factors influence an individual’s desires and pursuits.
Predicting Psychological Well-being: People’s aspirations and values are linked to their quality of life and happiness levels.
Fostering Personal Growth: Through the analysis of the AI, individuals can reflect on their internal and external priorities and how these impact their lives.

Calibration

The calibration of the AI involves validating the tool by developing consistent criteria for measuring aspirations. This process includes:
Experimental Validation: Evaluating the AI in different populations to determine its accuracy and reliability.
Validity and Reliability: Using test questionnaires and analyzing the data to ensure the tool accurately measures intrinsic and extrinsic values and remains reliable over time.

Bibliography

Kasser, T. & Ryan, R. M. (1996). Further examining the American dream: Differential correlates of intrinsic and extrinsic goals. Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin, 22(3), 280-287.
Deci, E. L., & Ryan, R. M. (2000). The “what” and “why” of goal pursuits: Human needs and the self-determination of behavior. Psychological Inquiry, 11(4), 227-268.
Grouzet, F. M. E., et al. (2005). The structure of goal contents across 15 cultures. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 89(5), 800-816.