Standardisation of the seven graphology factors scale for application in industry

Abstract

The 7 Graphology Factors Scale is standardised for application in industry. A literature study based on the personality theories of Freud, Jung, Murray and Cattell precedes the empirical research. Graphology is conceptualised, relevant existing graphology models are explored and a graphology theory and method for use in industry proposes that graphology should be regulated and applications classified on the same basis as psychometric tests. The empirical research is based on a sample comprising 360 subjects, stratified according to gender, position and language. The written protocol is subject to analysis of 59 characteristics on the basis of the configuration of the writing. language is irrelevant and the presentation of an intervening stimulus is avoided. Factor analysis results in eight secondary factors. These are I Task Orientation - Directive, II Task Orientation- Conscientious, Ill Emotional Stability, IV Extroversion, V Independence, VI Conceptualisation, VII Openness to Experience and VIII Need for Power. Cronbach's alpha coefficient achieves 0, 61 for Factor I. Stepwise regression analysis provides correlations between factors of the Thematic Apperception, Structured Objective Rorschach and 16 Personality Factor tests with all but Factor Ill, which is hypothesised to be a new construct. Five of the factors are hypothesised to align with the Big Five Personality Model. Thr9e-way analysis of variance, t-tests and the Mantei-Haenszel tests are applied to establish differentiation based on the stratification criteria. Norm tables based on Indigenous, English and Afrikaans first language groups are provided in stens and bands. Conclusions are that graphology has a worthy theoretical heritage and offers benefits to the psychological profession and specifically industry, as part of an assessment strategy. limitations are outlined and recommendations are made for further research.