Holland Code Type and Psychological Reactance

Abstract

This study investigated the relationship between the construct of psychological reactance and personality type. Recent studies have suggested that psychological reactance may well be an important client variable mediating the process and outcome of therapy. Psychological reactance was measured by both the Therapeutic Reactance Scale (TRS) and the Questionnaire for the Measurement of Psychological Reactance (QMPR). Personality type was measured by the Self-Directed Search. A total of 186 participants, including 80 males and 106 females, were administered the instruments. Regression analysis showed that three of the six Holland Code types significantly predicted psychological reactance for both the TRS and QMPR. These results add to the description of the psychological reactant individual and could allow therapists to devise treatment strategies, general therapeutic approaches, and treatment interventions that best meet the needs of the client.