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Potential performance theory (PPT): a general theory of task performance applied to morality
1Department of Psychology, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM 88003-8001, USA. dtrafimo@nmsu.edu
Psychological Review
|April 23, 2008
Summary
Potential Performance Theory (PPT) explains task performance by analyzing strategies and consistency. Improvements in performance stem from enhancing task strategies or their consistent application, as demonstrated in moral decision-making.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Psychology
- Behavioral Science
- Moral Psychology
Background:
- Task performance is influenced by strategies and their consistency.
- Existing theories may not fully capture the nuances of performance variation.
- Understanding these factors is crucial for improving human performance across domains.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce Potential Performance Theory (PPT) as a general framework for understanding task performance.
- To differentiate between observed scores and potential scores (corrected for inconsistency).
- To examine the impact of task strategies and consistency on performance in the domain of morality.
Main Methods:
- Development of Potential Performance Theory (PPT).
- Distinction between observed and potential scores.
- Application of PPT to analyze task strategies and consistency in moral performance.
Main Results:
- PPT provides a framework to distinguish observed performance from potential performance.
- Task strategies and their consistency are key determinants of performance.
- Improvements in performance can be achieved by modifying strategies or increasing consistency.
Conclusions:
- Potential Performance Theory (PPT) offers a comprehensive model for task performance.
- The theory highlights the interplay between strategies and consistency.
- Findings on moral performance have broader implications for understanding task execution in various fields.
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