A Structural Equation Modeling Analysis of the Means, End and Quest Dimensions

Abstract

Allport's distinction between intrinsic and religious orientations is well known. The first two studies designed to empirically examine this paradigm were implemented by Feagin (1964) and Allport and Ross (1967). The investigators proposed intrinsic and scales representing opposite ends of a unidimensional continuum. This paradigm has been the subject of considerable empirical research since that time (see Donahue [1985] for a comprehensive review). Batson's (1976) assessment of the I-E literature resulted in a recommendation to improve the original theory. His recommendation was based on recognition of a change in tone from Allport's earlier description of religion (1950) to his operational definition of intrinsic religion (Allport & Ross, 1967), which replaced mature religion in this typology (even as extrinsic religion replaced immature religion). Batson and Ventis point out: In contrast to the concept of religion, there seems to be less emphasis in the notion of intrinsic religion on flexibility, skepticism, and resistance as a master motive that is internalized and followed fully (Batson & Ventis, 1982: 144). Therefore, Batson and Ventis recommend a third orientation named Quest, which they describe as