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Action Control Scale (ACS-90)
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About Action Control Scale (ACS-90)
Scale Name
Action Control Scale (ACS-90)
Author Details
Julius Kuhl
Translation Availability
Not Sure
Background/Description
The Action Control Scale (ACS) emerged in 1994 as a brainchild of German psychologists Julius Kuhl and Joachim Beckmann. Their aim was to capture a fundamental personality trait: action-state orientation (ASO). This concept reflects the tendency to either actively pursue goals (action orientation) or passively react to situations (state orientation). The ACS, with its three subscales, delves into specific aspects:
- Goal Setting: This measures the inclination to define clear and achievable objectives.
- Action Planning: It assesses the ability to devise and execute strategies to reach those goals.
- Persistence: This subscale gauges the strength to remain committed despite challenges and setbacks.
The ACS typically takes the form of a self-report questionnaire. Individuals rate statements on a scale, with higher scores indicating a stronger action orientation. Researchers have used it extensively to explore the connection between ASO and various psychological factors such as self-efficacy, motivation, and well-being. Additionally, interventions based on the ACS have been developed to help individuals cultivate a more action-oriented mindset.
Essentially, the ACS provides a valuable tool for understanding and influencing how individuals approach their goals and navigate challenges. It sheds light on the internal compass guiding their actions and reactions, offering valuable insights for both research and personal development.
Administration, Scoring and Interpretation
- Ensure appropriate setting: Choose a quiet and comfortable environment where the participant can focus and answer honestly.
- Obtain informed consent: Explain the purpose of the assessment, potential benefits and risks, and answer any questions the participant might have. Obtain their written consent before proceeding.
- Gather materials: Prepare the ACS questionnaire, answer sheet, pen, and any additional instructions if needed.
- Provide instructions: Clearly explain the task and scoring format. Emphasize that there are no right or wrong answers and encourage honest responses.
- Present the questionnaire: Allow the participant to read each statement carefully and choose the answer that best reflects their usual way of thinking and acting.
- Answer questions: If the participant has any questions about specific items, clarify the meaning without influencing their response.
- Collect the completed questionnaire: Ensure all items are answered and the answer sheet is properly labeled.
Reliability and Validity
The Action Control Scale (ACS) has been assessed for both reliability and validity, with generally positive results:
- Internal consistency: The ACS shows good internal consistency, meaning items within each subscale measure the same construct and provide consistent scores. Studies report Cronbach’s alpha values ranging from 0.75 to 0.89, indicating strong reliability.
- Test-retest reliability: The ACS demonstrates good test-retest reliability, meaning scores remain relatively stable when participants retake the scale after a period of time (e.g., weeks or months). Research suggests acceptable correlations between scores across time intervals.
- Construct validity: Studies support the ACS’s ability to measure action-state orientation as intended. Scores correlate with other measures of related constructs like self-efficacy, achievement motivation, and impulsivity, as expected.
- Criterion-related validity: The ACS shows relationships with outcomes theoretically linked to ASO, such as academic achievement, goal attainment, and coping with stress. Higher action orientation scores have been associated with positive outcomes in these areas.
- Factorial validity: Factor analyses generally support the three-factor structure of the ACS, with items loading onto their respective subscales (goal setting, action planning, persistence).
Available Versions
36-Items
Reference
Diefendorff, J. M., Hall, R. J., Lord, R. G., & Strean, M. L. (2000). Action–state orientation: Construct validity of a revised measure and its relationship to work-related variables. Journal of Applied Psychology, 85(2), 250.
Kuhl, J. (1994). Action versus state orientation: Psychometric properties of the Action Control Scale (ACS-90). Volition and personality: Action versus state orientation, 47(56), 47-59.
Important Link
Scale File:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ACS?
Measures action-state orientation (ASO): tendency to actively pursue goals (action) vs. passively react (state).
What are the subscales?
Goal Setting: Clarity and specificity of goals.
Action Planning: Ability to develop and execute plans.
Persistence: Sticking with goals despite challenges.
How is it administered?
Self-report questionnaire, usually Likert scale (1-5).
Is it reliable and valid?
Yes, good internal consistency, test-retest reliability, and construct validity.
Where can I find more information?
Original article: Kuhl & Beckmann (1994)
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