The World Hypotheses Scale: Rationale, Reliability and Validity

Abstract

Summary: Theoretical descriptions are presented for four different sets cognitive assumptions concerning the fundamental meaning of events. These cognitive assumptions or world hypotheses are called formism, mechanism, organicism, and contextualism. The development of a 12-item scale to measure individual preferences for these world hypotheses is described. Finally, several empirical studies are reported in which diverse behavioral correlates have been found for individuals preferences among world hypotheses. Specifically, significant results have been obtained for choice of careers, stability of friendships, and success in both group and individual therapies.