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The perception of doability and how is it measured

Author

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  • Ryszard Praszkier

    (University of Warsaw)

  • Agata Zabłocka

    (SWPS University)

Abstract

This article argues that the propensity to perceive impossible challenges as doable is a personality trait, and presents a method for measuring it. The name coined for this concept is “possibilitivity,” a portmanteau of “possible” and “creativity.” Possibilitivity is related to such personality traits as self-efficacy and locus of control. This article shows that this trait is embedded in individual cognitive processes, whilst targeting social issues; in this vein, it may be seen as an important mechanism facilitating change-making and transgressing the seemingly impossible. Methodology for assessing this trait is presented, i.e., the process of constructing and validating a questionnaire, its psychometric properties, and some comparisons within the sample (N = 1117). One of the findings is that women are significantly more prone to perceive difficult challenges as doable than men. Seeing this study as the first step, further research recommendations are presented, e.g., comparing possibilitivity between various segments of society, as well as analyzing potential correlations with other traits, e.g., empathy or ambiguity tolerance.

Suggested Citation

  • Ryszard Praszkier & Agata Zabłocka, 2022. "The perception of doability and how is it measured," Mind & Society: Cognitive Studies in Economics and Social Sciences, Springer;Fondazione Rosselli, vol. 21(1), pages 51-62, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:minsoc:v:21:y:2022:i:1:d:10.1007_s11299-021-00284-2
    DOI: 10.1007/s11299-021-00284-2
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Marc D. Hauser, 2009. "The possibility of impossible cultures," Nature, Nature, vol. 460(7252), pages 190-196, July.
    2. Miller, Danny, 1992. "The icarus paradox: How exceptional companies bring about their own downfall," Business Horizons, Elsevier, vol. 35(1), pages 24-35.
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