Transformational Power as a Possible Index of Creativity

Abstract

Based on a conceptual framework developed by Jackson and Messick (1965), a technique was developed for assessing transformational power in responses to creativity test items. Aesthetic reactions of judges were used to evaluate 87 Torrance test protocols for transformational responses. Of 846 “high creative strength” responses, 93 were judged transformational (80% agreement between judges). The six most powerful transformations (100% agreement) were not necessarily produced by those who scored highest on Torrance's test. Limitations of the present study and implications of the results for future research are discussed.