Hogan Personality Inventory

Subscale
Interpretive
Guide
HPI Hogan Personality Inventory
HDS Hogan Development Survey
MVPI Motives, Values, Preferences Inventory
T H E S C I E N C E O F P E R S O N A L I T Y
Distributed by: Performance Programs, Inc. www.PerformancePrograms.com 1-860-388-9422

Subscale Interpretive Guide HPI
Introduction
The Hogan Personality Inventory (HPI) is a measure of normal, day-to-day personality. It provides
detailed information regarding the “bright side” of personality: characteristics that facilitate a person’s
ability to get along with others and achieve his or her professional, educational and personal goals.
Learning and development professionals understand the value of the HPI for measuring personality-
based strengths, competency areas and potential development needs. Over the years, we have observed
a growing need and customer demand for a subscale format that is easier to interpret and understand,
both for Hogan feedback recipients and the professionals debriefing their results. The actual facets
measured by the subscales are not changing; just the method in which they’re presented.
Evolution of HPI Subscales

• Hogan regularly updates the HPI to remain current and align with emerging research and
experience. These improvements build on the existing measurement properties of the HPI and
ensures more accurate, intuitive interpretation of HPI subscales. New features include:
• Updated Subscale Display: HPI subscales will be presented in a cleaner, more intuitive visual format.
· HPI subscale updates will appear on the Potential, Flash, and Insight Reports
· On these reports, each of the HPI subscales are represented by visual bar charts
· These bar charts will replace the existing raw score “fraction” subscale indicators
• Updated Subscale Interpretive Guidelines: New format makes subscales easier to interpret.
· Subscale scores are now presented based on cumulative frequencies, indicating the relative
frequency of a given score compared to the global working population.
· This method allows presentation of subscale scores as a histogram organized into quartiles. In
other words, the bar charts will indicate the quartile in which an individual’s score falls.
• Psychometric Properties: Enhanced measurement mechanics.
· New format allows for easier, more seamless updates to HPI norms
· Smoother process for updating assessment items as needed

HPI Main Scales

Based on the Five-Factor Model (FFM) of personality, the HPI includes seven primary scales. The
assessment items are short statements to which respondents answer “True” if the statement describes
them accurately or “False” if it does not. Results for primary scales are presented and interpreted using
percentiles, indicating a person’s expected behaviors in relation to the global workforce.
HPI Scale Summary

Below is a review of the 7 HPI primary scales, including behavioral implications for high and low scores:
SCALE LOWER SCORE ATTRIBUTES HIGHER SCORE ATTRIBUTES
Adjustment • Pessimistic, tense, & stress- • Resilient, optimistic, composed

Measures stress-tolerance, prone • Arrogant & feedback-resistant
resilience, optimism & composure • Vigilant, self-aware, high sense
of urgency
Ambition • Lower confidence, drive, & • Forceful, may over-compete

Measures competitive drive, initiative • High self-confidence, drive,
perceived energy & goal-orientation • Supportive, team-oriented energy
Sociability • Socially reactive, lower-impact • Distractible, talks more than

Measures social energy, social style listens
communication frequency & • Focused, purposeful, task- • Socially proactive, team-
relationship-building oriented oriented
Interpersonal Sensitivity • Direct, frank, straightforward • Potentially “too soft” with

Measures tact, communication style • Low-touch style & potentially feedback
& relationship-maintenance skill abrasive • Diplomatic, warm, friendly
Prudence • Resists supervision & • Rigid about details & rules

Measures detail-orientation, inattentive to details • Dependable, process-focused,
organizational skills & dependability • Flexible, ambiguity-tolerant organized
Inquisitive • Tactical, short-term view • Low process & execution focus

Measures idea-orientation, level of • Pragmatic, strong implementer • Strategic, longer-term, big-
curiosity & openness to new ideas picture view
Learning Approach • Hands-on, practical, just-in- • Continuous traditional learning

Measures learning style, propensity time learner style
to seek new information & stay up- • May seem uninformed • Possibly seems pedantic or
to-date know-it-all

Interpreting HPI Subscales

Introduction
Each of the primary HPI scales breaks down into a group of related subscales. Each of these subscales,
otherwise known as Homogenous Item Composites, or HICs, has a label describing the behavioral
construct measured. The HPI subscales can be used to deepen one’s understanding of how an
individual’s typical behaviors, strengths, and core personality attributes manifest in the workplace.
Subscales contribute immense richness to interpretation above and beyond main scale scores.
How to Interpret HPI Subscales

Each subscale will be presented in brick form, similar to the sample presented below. Each brick
represents approximately one quartile. Quartiles are calculated using a cumulative frequency analysis,
indicating the relative frequency of a given score compared to the global working population.
Example: Prudence
Moralistic High score: 4th Quartile (76-100%)
Mastery Above average score: 3rd Quartile (51-75%)
Virtuous Below average score: 2nd Quartile (26-50%)
Not Autonomous Low score: 1st Quartile (1-25%)
Not Spontaneous Invalid score: cannot score subscale*
Impulse Control Minimum Score: 0 items endorsed*
Special Cases
Invalid Subscales: If a subscale cannot be scored, you will see a dashed line as shown in the Not
Spontaneous subscale above. This may happen if the person did not answer enough items on that
subscale to generate a valid score. An invalid score does not indicate that the person was inconsistent
or dishonest in their responses; rather it is simply an indication that the subscale could not be scored.
Minimum Scores: If a person endorsed zero of the items on any given subscale, none of the subscale
boxes will appear shaded as shown above in the Impulse Control subscale. This indicates the person
received a zero, the minimum possible score on that subscale.
Validity Scale: In the HPI section of the Flash Report, you will notice a Validity scale. The Validity scale
checks for normal vs. erratic or careless response patterns. This scale should be interpreted as pass/
fail. A score of 4 bars represents a normal or “pass” score; a Validity scale score of 0 bars indicates a
“fail” score where the individual may have answered items in an erratic or careless manner.
Impression Management: Embedded in the HPI Prudence scale is a series of subscales that captures
a person’s propensity to closely manage the impression they make on others. This “impression
management” cluster of subscales includes the Moralistic, Mastery and Virtuous subscales. Using
the new subscale format, the rule of thumb for evaluating whether impression management exists is
as follows: Between the three impression management subscales, the maximum possible score is 12
shaded boxes. If 11 or more of the 12 total boxes are shaded, the coach or feedback provider should
make a note that the person may be an impression manager.

Previous Subscale Formats

If you have been using the Hogan assessments for some time now, you may be used to seeing the
subscales in a different format shown in the example below. This format is being retired in light of the
new subscale bar charts. Below is a side-by-side comparison between the old and new formats.
Frequently Asked Questions:

Sample Previous Subscale Format: Q: Why change the subscale format?
(Items endorsed / Items in subscale) A: The main goals are to (1) provide a more intuitive way to
1. Validity 13/14 interpret subscale scores and (2) drive consistency between HPI
Adjustment and HDS subscale formats.
2. Empathy 2/5
3. Not Anxious 4/4 Q: Can I see the conversion between the old subscale format
4. No Guilt 5/6
5. Calmness 4/4 (i.e., raw scores) and the corresponding quartiles or bar charts?
6. Even-tempered 5/5
7. No Complaints 5/5 A: No. In order to protect the integrity and intellectual property
8. Trusting 2/3
9. Good Attachment 4/5 of the assessment items, we cannot supply a conversion chart.
Sample conversions presented below provide a general idea of
how the new format compares to the old.
Examples: Comparison between Old and New Subscale Format
Subscale Raw Score Quartile Subscale Bricks Notes

4/4 4 Raw score 4/4 represents full expression of subscale
3/4 3 Raw score 3/4 is above average
Not Anxious 2/4 2 Raw score 2/4 is at or below average
1/4 1 Raw score 1/4 is well below average
0/4 0 No bars are shaded if 0 items are endorsed

4/6 2 Raw score 4/6 is at or below average
No Guilt 3/6 Raw scores ranging from 1/6 to 3/6 are well below
2/6 1 average compared to the global working population, and
1/6 should be interpreted accordingly
0/6 0 No bars are shaded if 0 items are endorsed
As you can see, the conversions are not exactly linear – the more normally distributed responses are for
a given subscale, the more proportional the conversions between raw scores and quartiles. Subscales
with skewed distributions result in conversions that are non-linear, which helps account for the skew in
the subscale.
In other words, it is relatively rare for individuals to score between 1 and 3 on the No Guilt subscale.
Less than 25% of respondents in the global working population score in this range, so whether the raw
score is 1, 2, or 3, this score deviates from the population enough to warrant interpretive differences.
Now, this information is “built in” to the subscales, drawing the interpreter’s attention to scores that
depart significantly from the norm.

Sample HPI Subscale Profiles

Example 1
Scale Name Score Percentile
Adjustment 23
Empathy Absence of irritability

Not Anxious Absence of anxiety
No Guilt Absence of regret
Calmness Lack of emotionality
Even-Tempered Not moody or irritable
No Complaints Does not complain
Trusting Not paranoid or suspicious
Good Attachment Good relations with authority figures
Interpretation: This individual scored at the 23rd percentile on Adjustment. This example represents an interesting
pattern of subscales, including a lot of contrasting scores. Let’s start with the high scores: this individual trusts
others easily (high Trusting), is usually in a good mood (high Even-Tempered), and tends to move on quickly from
mistakes and setbacks (high No Guilt). However, lower scores suggest this person experiences a lot of anxiety (low
Not Anxious), has difficulty concealing strong emotions (low Calmness) and may struggle somewhat in relationships
with figures of authority (low Good Attachment).
Example 2
Ambition 30
Competitive Being competitive, ambitious, and persistent

Self-Confidence Confidence in oneself
Accomplishment Satisfaction with one's performance
Leadership Tendency to assume leadership roles
Identity Satisfaction with one's life tasks
No Social Anxiety Social self-confidence
Interpretation: This individual scored at the 30th percentile on Ambition. Although this person is quite competitive
and goal-oriented (high Competitive), seems leader-like (high Leadership), and has focused career direction
(high Identity), she appears lacking in self-confidence (below average Self-Confidence), is not satisfied with her
achievements (low Accomplishment) and is anxious about expressing her ideas in group settings (low No Social
Anxiety). This individual’s lack of outward confidence does not match her internal drive and competitive energy.
Coaching for this person might focus on the ways in which this Ambition subscale pattern may interfere with career
progression.

Sample HPI Subscale Profiles (continued)

Example 3
Sociability 59
Likes Parties Enjoys social gatherings

Likes Crowds Finds large crowds exciting
Experience Seeking Preference for variety and challenge
Exhibitionistic Seeks attention
Entertaining Being charming and amusing
Interpretation: This individual scored at the 59th percentile, indicating a social style balanced between proactive
and reactive communication. This particular configuration of subscales provides more insight into the individual’s
tendencies when it comes to initiating communication and relationships with others. Although this person enjoys
some large-group settings (high Likes Crowds) and appears to be relatively charming in interactions with others
(above average Entertaining), he or she may prefer to be more anonymous in these situations (below average
Exhibitionistic) and prefer planned, predictable social gatherings, perhaps those in which they know the other
people attending quite well (very low Experience Seeking and low Likes Parties).
Example 4

Interpersonal 7
Sensitivity
Easy to Live With Tolerant and easygoing nature

Sensitive Perceptive and understanding
Caring Tends to be kind and considerate
Likes People Enjoys being around others
No Hostility Generally accepting
Interpretation: This individual scored at the 7th percentile. This particular configuration of subscales provides
more insight into the individual’s tendencies when it comes to communication style and responsiveness to others’
needs. Although this person appears to have an easy-going and agreeable nature (high Easy to Live With), and is
somewhat sensitive and responsive to others’ needs (below average Caring), he or she seems willing to confront
or criticize others when necessary (below average on No Hostility), may seem inconsiderate or lacking in tact when
delivering critical feedback (below average Caring), and may prefer working more with data than with people or
seem independent and socially withdrawn (low Likes People).

Sample Profile Take-Aways

• Notice that in all four examples, the interpretive focus remains at the primary scale level
• Overall interpretation should not change dramatically based solely on subscale scores
• Instead, the subscales scores should be used to specify which component behaviors contribute
the greatest weight, salience, and meaning to the overall scale score and accompanying behavioral
implications
• As a general rule of thumb, subscales should only be highlighted when they add interpretive value
to the behavioral implications of the primary scales – not all subscales will yield critical information
Appendix
The next page includes a subscale interpretive table that provides an overview of the behaviors
measured by each HPI subscale. Each row includes the subscale name, a short description, sample
item, and behavioral implications of both low and high scores.

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Subscale Sample Item Low Scores High Scores
Empathy I am often irritated by the faults of others. Irritated by others’ flaws Seems empathic
Not Anxious I am seldom tense or anxious. Anxious or tense Seems relaxed
Adjustment
No Guilt I rarely feel guilty about things I have done. Prone to worry about past mistakes Does not worry about past mistakes
Calmness I keep calm in a crisis. Gets emotional at times Is calm
Even Tempered I rarely lose my temper. Is temperamental or moody Is even-tempered
No Complaints I rarely complain to others. Complains about many issues Does not complain
Trusting People really care about one another. Questions others’ intentions Trusts others
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Good Attachment There were times I felt like running away Hostile towards authority Has positive attitude toward authority
Competitive I am an ambitious person Laid back Enjoys competition and works to get ahead
Self Confident I am a very self-confident person Lacks confidence Confident
Ambition
Accomplishment I am known as someone who gets things done Unhappy with accomplishments Enjoys self and work
Leadership In a group I like to take charge of things Reluctant to assume leadership roles Willing to assume authority positions
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Identity I know what I want to be Lacks career direction Focused career direction
No Social Anxiety I enjoy talking in front of groups of people Socially retiring Confident in social settings
Likes Parties I enjoy going to parties. Does not enjoy parties Enjoys social gatherings
Sociability
Likes Crowds Being part of a large crowd is exciting. Prefers smaller groups Enjoys large groups
Experience Seeking I like a lot of variety in my life. Unadventurous and prefers little variety Adventurous, actively seeks out experiences
Exhibitionistic I like to be the center of attention. Avoids the limelight Enjoys attention and “showing off”
Entertaining I am often the life of the party. Not particularly entertaining Charming, amusing, good sense of humor
Easy To Live With I work well with other people Not always tolerant and kind-hearted Perceived as easygoing by others
Interpersonal
Sensitivity
Sensitive I try to see the other persons’ point of view Not very tactful or considerate Tactful, considerate and
Caring I am sensitive to other people’s moods Does not appreciate others’ needs Perceptive and understanding
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Likes People I enjoy just being with other people Socially withdrawn Enjoys others’ company
No Hostility I don’t mind criticizing people when needed Critical of others Generally accepting
Moralistic I always practice what I preach Prefers to set his/her own rules Willing to follow rules/conventions
Mastery I do my job as well as I possibly can Relaxed attitude about his/her work Concerned with doing a good job
Prudence
Virtuous I strive for perfection in everything I do Willing to admit minor faults Diligent and precise
Not Autonomous Other people’s opinions of me are important Independent and feedback resistant Concerned about how others view him/her
Not Spontaneous I always know what I will do tomorrow Spontaneous Well-planned in his/her approach
HPI
Impulse Control I rarely do things on impulse Tends to act on impulse Likes to “play it safe”
Avoids Trouble When I was in school I rarely caused trouble Takes unnecessary and negative risks Considers actions and their consequences
HPI Subscale Table
Science Ability I am interested in science Shows little interest in why things happen Takes an interest in why things happen
Subscale Interpretive Guide
Curiosity I have taken things apart to see how they work Low degree of curiosity High degree of curiosity
Inquisitive
Thrill Seeking I would like to be a race car driver Not interested in stimulation/excitement Wants stimulation, and excitement
Intellectual Games I enjoy solving riddles Not interested in intellectual games Interested in riddles and puzzles
Generates Ideas I am a quick-witted person Does not see self as an idea generator Good at generating new ideas
Culture I like trying new, exotic types of food Narrow interests Wide variety of activities
Education As a child, school was easy for me Does not enjoy traditional education Positive attitude about traditional education
Approach
Learning
Math Ability I can multiply large numbers quickly Does not work well with numbers Works well with numbers
Good Memory I can remember details easily Somewhat forgetful Can remember things easily
Reading I would rather read than watch TV Does not keep up-to-date Keeps up-to-date; well-informed
Subscale Interpretive Guide HDS
Introduction
The Hogan Development Survey (HDS) is the industry standard for assessing derailers –
counterproductive behavioral tendencies that emerge in times of stress and complacency.
Organizations around the world rely on the HDS for identifying behaviors that disrupt or interfere with
effective performance. Learning and development professionals understand the value of the HDS for
shedding light on critical blind spots, increasing strategic self-awareness, and driving personal growth.
They also know coaching, when coupled with HDS results, can help individuals manage problematic
tendencies.
The Evolution of the HDS

Hogan updated items and added subscales to the HDS in keeping with our philosophy of Kaizen
Psychometrics, which is the belief in continually improving our assessments based on research and
experience. These improvements build on the unique measurement properties of the HDS and bring a
new level of precision to the assessment of derailment patterns. New features include:
1. Subscales: Derailers are multi-faceted. Derailment behaviors are complex and multi-faceted. Over
the years, we have observed a growing need and customer demand for the inclusion of subscales to
assist in the interpretation of HDS profiles. Although inherently imbedded within the HDS, subscales
were not originally defined or presented in reports. Perhaps the most exciting improvement to the
HDS, the new subscales provide in-depth insight into the many faces of derailment.
• HDS subscale results are available on the Challenge, Flash, and Insight Reports.
• On these reports, each of the 11 derailers feature a subset of three underlying behavioral
themes.
• Similar to the scoring of HDS primary scales, each subscale is scored as a risk rating indicating
the strength of the behavior and degree to which the theme contributes to the overall score.
2. Low Score Implications: Deeper insight into underused strengths. Although high-risk derailers
pose the greatest threat to leadership effectiveness in the form of overused strengths, extreme low
scores can represent underused strengths. In other words, high scorers may get fired; low scorers
may get overlooked. This does not diminish the view of higher scores, but demonstrates the value of
examining the full range of scores on a given scale. New low-score features with the HDS include:
• Definitions for both high and low scores on each HDS subscale
• Additional training on low scores in Hogan’s advanced certification workshops
• New options for coaching individuals whose HDS profiles do not include any elevated scores
3. Psychometric Properties: Enhanced measurement mechanics. Hogan regularly evaluates
and updates our inventories to ensure they exceed the highest standards of testing excellence.
Enhancements are essential to maintaining our commitment to advancing the science of personality
assessment. Psychometric improvements made to the HDS include:
• Replacement of outdated assessment items

• Updates to the HDS norms
• Additional validation work to ensure the effective prediction of workplace behaviors
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Interpretive Guidelines
The HDS predicts behaviors critical to career success. The evolution of the HDS builds on what we have
learned from years of research and application of the assessment, resulting in greater prediction of
critical behaviors and enhanced ability to interpret results.
Below are interpretive guidelines and ground rules to keep in mind:
Best Practices Cautions
The whole is greater than the sum of its parts; Avoid over-emphasizing or over-generalizing
as with all Hogan assessments, the primary subscales. The validity and predictive power of a
interpretative focus should always remain at the single subscale is too narrow to stand alone.
main scale level.
Use the subscales for deeper, more nuanced Context matters; avoid over-analyzing individual
understanding of behaviors driving the overall subscales or interpreting their meaning in a
scale. vacuum.
Keep in mind the risk rating for each subscale Avoid drawing conclusions about low-risk scores
mirrors the risk thresholds for overall scale (40-69%); these fall in an interpretive gray area,
scores, ranging from no to high risk. which means behavioral inferences cannot be
made.
Focus on moderate- to high-risk ratings (70- Interpret no-risk (0-39%) scores cautiously if
100%). Advanced users may also evaluate no you do not have extensive HDS experience and
risk scores (0-39%). have not attended advanced Hogan certification
workshops.
Use the information you gain through analysis of It is not advised to reference subscales
the subscales to identify specific developmental directly during a debrief; rather, incorporate
targets/actions that will deliver the greatest the information into your overall analysis and
impact. feedback.
Look for opportunities to draw connections Remember: there are 125 sub-dimensions
between the HDS subscales, as well as to other across the three Hogan tools: 42 HPI subscales,
behavioral themes emerging on the HPI and 33 HDS subscales, and 50 MVPI item theme
MVPI assessments. scores. It is not useful to examine every one;
focus on extreme scores and those with the
greatest impact.
11

Sample HDS Subscale Profiles

Example 1 – High Skeptical score with subscales
Dimension Score Percentile
Skeptical 90
Prone to doubt others’ intentions and assume they

Cynical
have bad ulterior motives.
Generalized mistrust of people and institutions;
Mistrusting
being alert for signs of perceived mistreatment.
Holding grudges and being unwilling to forgive real
Grudges
or perceived wrongs.
Interpretation: This individual scored at the 90th percentile on Skeptical. People scoring in the high-
risk zone are often described as bright and perceptive, but cynical, fault-finding, and alert for signs
of betrayal. This example represents a classic high-risk Skeptical case; all three of the subscales
contribute to this individual’s scale score. The elevation of all three subscales suggests the full
spectrum of negative behavioral themes associated with the main scale are likely to emerge when the
person is not actively self-monitoring. The Grudges subscale contributes slightly less to the overall
score on Skeptical, but is still an area in which the individual should be aware and continue to monitor.
Example 2 – Low Skeptical score with subscales
Skeptical 3

Cynical
Mistrusting
Grudges
Interpretation: This individual scored at the 3rd percentile on Skeptical. People with extreme low scores
are typically viewed as optimistic, positive, trusting, steady, and have minimal risk of exhibiting the
behaviors typically associated with the Skeptical derailer. With low scores, the challenge is not always
found in what the person is doing, but rather what he or she is not doing. For example, low-score
behaviors may include a tendency to let one’s guard down quickly or fail to scan the environment for
threats. Consequently, they may lack political awareness or be naïve to the point that they allow others
to take advantage.
12

Sample HDS Subscale Profiles (continued)
Example 3 – Average Skeptical score with subscales
Skeptical 58

Cynical
Mistrusting
Grudges
Interpretation: This individual scored at the 58th percentile, indicating neither a high-risk nor
an extremely low-risk score. Prior to the HDS enhancements, average scores were often deemed
uninterpretable; however, this particular configuration of subscales provides more insight into the
individual’s attitudes towards others. The elevation on the Cynical subscale indicates this person is
wary of others’ true intentions and pauses to consider potential ulterior motives. However, the relatively
low scores on Mistrusting and Grudges indicate no risk of demonstrating generalized mistrust, holding
grudges, or retaliating against others when wronged. Overall, we might say this person has a “verify,
then trust” approach to evaluating others’ objectives, but overall does not demonstrate a high risk of
exhibiting the full complement of derailing Skeptical behaviors.

Notice that in all three examples, the focus remains on the main scale. The interpretation should not
deviate dramatically based on subscale scores alone. Rather, the subscales are used to specify which
component behaviors will contribute greatest weight and salience to the overall scale score. Similar to
the HPI, subscales should only be highlighted when they add interpretive value to the implications for
the main HDS scale score.
The following interpretive guide provides an overview of the behaviors measured by each HDS subscale.
Each derailer includes a description, sample item, behavior range from low to high, and subscale
descriptions anchored at both the low and high ends of the spectrum. The advantage of this structure is
it allows for a more precise interpretation of behaviors contributing to a scale score.
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Subscale Interpretive Guide
Excitable
Description: The Excitable scale concerns working with passion and enthusiasm, but also being easily
frustrated, moody, irritable, and inclined to give up on projects and people.
Low scorers seem calm to the point of Behavior Range High scorers display dramatic
appearing to lack passion or urgency emotional peaks and valleys
regarding people and projects
Subscale Low Score High Score Sample Item

Self-controlled; demonstrates Temperamental, easily angered I can get angry
Volatile strong emotional regulation but or upset, tendency to lose quickly.
may seem overly restrained control of emotions and react in
interpersonally harsh ways
Tolerant and resilient, but may Demonstrates initial passion for Few people
seem to lack passion or “fire in people and projects, but may have met my
Easily Disappointed
the belly” be seen as easily disappointed, expectations.
frustrated, and losing interest
Seems steady, self-assured, and Cooperative and helpful, but Sometimes I am not
clear about beliefs; unlikely to may lack energy or have few sure what I really
No Direction
dwell on past mistakes well defined beliefs or interests; believe.
tends to regret past behavior
Skeptical
Description: The Skeptical scale concerns being alert for signs of deceptive behavior in others and
taking action when it is detected.
Behavior Range
Low scorers seem trusting to the point High scorers are negative or cynical
of naïveté and expect to be betrayed

Seems positive and steady, but Perceptive about others’
When someone does
may not examine others’ true intentions but tends to assume
Cynical me a favor, I wonder
intentions carefully enough; they have bad ulterior motives;
what he/she wants.
prone to naïveté prone to negativity, quarrelsome
Generally trusting, seems Generalized mistrust of people People who are in
practical and cooperative; and institutions; worrisome charge will take
Mistrusting
follows-through but may get and alert for signs of perceived advantage of you if
taken advantage of by others mistreatment you let them.
Forgiving of others and Prone to holding grudges There are some
understanding; others may take and unwilling to forgive people I will never
Grudges
advantage of this accepting real or perceived wrongs; forgive.
nature unsympathetic and fault-finding
14

Cautious
Description: The Cautious scale concerns risk aversion, fear of failure, and avoiding criticism.
Low scorers are willing to take risks High scorers are reluctant to take
without adequate risk assessment
Behavior Range risks regardless of risk assessment

Open, warm, enthusiastic, and Avoids new people and I feel awkward
eager to meet new people but situations to prevent potential around strangers.
Avoidant may overpower others or seem embarrassment; may
uninhibited seem aloof, inhibited, and
disinterested in others
Willing to try new things, Afraid of being criticized for People sometimes
seems original, inventive, and making mistakes and reluctant think I am timid.
Fearful confident; may be overly forceful to act or make decisions
when expressing opinions and independently; may seem
ideas unoriginal
Decisive, assertive, and willing Unwilling to act assertively; People tell me
to express opinions; may tendency to be indecisive I’m not assertive
Unassertive enough.
come across as abrasive, and slow to act; may seem
inconsiderate, or unsympathetic cooperative but overly compliant
Reserved
Description: The Reserved scale concerns seeming tough, aloof, remote, and unconcerned with the
feelings of others.
Low scorers are too concerned about Behavior Range High scorers are indifferent to the
the feelings of others feelings of others

Socially engaging, enthusiastic, Values private time and prefers I consider myself a
and enjoys being around to work alone; may seem loner.
Introverted
others; may be seen as socially withdrawn, unapproachable, or
boisterous lacking in energy
Relationship-oriented, Keeps others at a distance, I prefer to keep people
accessible, warm, and highly limits close relationships, and at a distance.
Unsocial
cooperative; may seem conflict- seems generally detached, aloof,
avoidant and potentially argumentative
Sympathetic, sensitive to others’ Seems indifferent to others’ Other people’s problems
feelings, but may seem overly feelings and problems; focused don’t concern me.
Tough
diplomatic or too soft on people on tasks rather than people;
issues may seem cold or unfeeling
15

Leisurely
Description: The Leisurely scale concerns appearing to be friendly and cooperative, but actually
following one’s own agenda and quietly, but stubbornly resisting those of others.
Low scorers appear to lack an agenda Behavior Range High scorers are passive-aggressive
or direction and agenda driven

Seems steady, cooperative, and Overtly pleasant and compliant I sometimes put off
forgiving; comfortable express- but privately resentful and doing things for people I
Passive Aggressive ing feelings and opinions subversive regarding requests don’t like.
for improved performance;
seems moody and easily upset
Cooperative, efficient, reliable, Believes that one’s talents and People at work expect
and willing to help others; likely contributions are ignored or me to do everything.
Unappreciated
to believe hard work will speak under-appreciated; perceives
for itself inequities in assigned workloads
Open to feedback, willing to Privately but easily irritated It irritates me to be
assist others; may readily agree by interruptions, requests, or interrupted when I am
Irritated to help others which could work-related suggestions; not working on something.
ultimately distract from work easily coached
tasks and agendas
Bold
Description: The Bold scale concerns seeming fearless, confident, and self-assured; always expecting to
succeed and unable to admit mistakes or learn from experience.
Low scorers appear to lack self- High scorers seem assertive, self-
Behavior Range
confidence and resolve promoting, and overly self-confident

Unassuming, unpretentious, Feels that one has special I would never take a
and helpful; may lack in outward gifts and accomplishments job that is beneath me.
confidence, or not actively seek and therefore deserves special
Entitled out more challenging work treatment; seems combative,
assignments self-important, and unrealistically
expectant of deference from
others
Seems modest and realistic Unusually confident in one’s I do many things better
about abilities, but may have low abilities; believes that one will than almost everyone
Overconfidence standards for work quality or succeed in anything; highly I know.
seem to lack focus and drive organized and systematic, but
overestimates one’s level of
competence and worth
Practical, content, and realistic Believing that one has unusual I was born to do great
about abilities; may seem to pre- talents or has been born for things.
Fantasized Talent fer more routine work or come greatness; seems original and
across as uninventive inventive, but arrogant, hyper-
competitive, and unrealistic
16

Mischievous
Description: The Mischievous scale concerns seeming bright, impulsive, adventurous, risk seeking, and
limit-testing.
Low scorers are conservative, High scorers are impulsive, limit-

compliant, and likely unadventurous
Behavior Range testing, and at times, devious

Compliant, conservative, and Prone to taking risks and testing I try things that other people
cooperative; avoids unnecessary limits; deliberately bending or think are too risky.
Risky risk and makes few mistakes; breaking inconvenient rules;
may seem unadventurous or may seem unconcerned with risk
overly conforming
Dependable, reliable, and Tending to act without I often do things on the spur
focused; may seem overly considering the long-term of the moment.
Impulsive structured, conventional, or consequences of one’s actions;
predictable seems disorganized, impetuous,
and unpredictable
Seems genuine, straightforward, Uses charm to manipulate
and trustworthy; may seem others and demonstrates little When I want to get my way,
overly inhibited, struggle to gain remorse for doing so; may be I know how to “turn on the
Manipulative charm.”
influence or persuade others persuasive and interesting but
potentially seem insincere or
deceptive
Colorful
Description: The Colorful scale concerns seeming gregarious, fun, entertaining, and enjoying being in
the spotlight.
Low scorers are modest, unassuming, Behavior Range High scorers are attention-seeking,
quiet, and self-restrained dramatic, and socially prominent

Self-restrained, quiet, and Outgoing, socially confident, and In a group, I am
controlled; may seem socially engaging; presents ideas with often the center of
inhibited and lacking in outward energy and enthusiasm, but is attention.
Public Confidence
confidence attention-seeking, dominates
conversation, and talks over
others
Focused, task-oriented, and Energetic, curious, and idea- I like to have sever-
methodical; may seem unable to oriented; but is also easily al things going on
Distractible
shift gears quickly or multitask bored, distractible, and needs at the same time.
effectively constant stimulation
Restrained, adherent to social Expressive, entertaining, and I sometimes dress
norms and expectations, may dynamic; enjoys the spotlight; so as to stand out
Self-Display not make a strong impression on uses dramatics to attract from the crowd.
others attention to oneself; may seem
self-absorbed
17

Imaginative
Description: The Imaginative scale concerns seeming innovative, creative, possibly eccentric, and
sometimes self-absorbed.
Low scorers are practical, rely on High scorers may seem impractical,
Behavior Range
routine, and often lack new ideas unpredictable, and offer unusual
ideas

Conventional, practical, and Curious and imaginative, but People describe me as
organized; may seem unoriginal disorganized, unfocused, and unconventional.
Eccentric or lacking in creativity lacking in follow-through;
expresses unusual views that
may be creative or strange
Seems open to others’ ideas and Belief that one has special I sometimes feel I have
perspectives, but others may abilities to see things others special talents and abilities.
Special Sensitivity
not perceive a strong sense of don’t and understand complex
vision issues that others cannot
Pragmatic and grounded; may Highly creative, inventive, and Many of my ideas are ahead
seem uninspired or lacking in idea-oriented; easily bored and of their time.
Creative Thinking
curiosity and creativity potentially overconfident in
one’s problem-solving ability
Diligent
Description: The Diligent scale concerns being hardworking, detail-oriented, and having high standards
of performance for self and others.
Low scorers have poor attention to High scorers are picky, overly
detail and tend to over delegate Behavior Range conscientious, and tend to
micromanage

Seems relaxed and forgiving Exceptionally high standards I have high standards
with respect to performance of performance for oneself and for my performance at
Standards standards; may seem careless others; practical, systematic, work.
and disorganized and exacting
Action-oriented, works quickly, Perfectionistic about the I tend to be a

may neglect important details or quality of work products and perfectionist about my
Perfectionistic seem expedient obsessed with the details of work.
their completion; precise and
competitive
Flexible, able to work comfort- Meticulous and inflexible about
I am fussy about
ably in ambiguous situations; schedules, timing, rules, and
schedules and timing.
seems inattentive to rules/ procedures; organized, thor-
Organized
policies, may not demonstrate ough, efficient, but manage-
strong planning skills or ade- ment style marked by excessive
quate follow through control
18

Dutiful
Description: The Dutiful scale concerns being compliant, conforming, and eager to please others.
Low scorers are overly independent High scorers are excessively eager to
and seem to resent authority Behavior Range please superiors

Independent and self-sufficient; Overly reliant on others for On important issues, I dislike
may fail to solicit advice or gain advice and reluctant to act making decisions on my own.
Indecisive buy-in from others when making independently; careful to seek
decisions; may be too quick to approval and/or consensus
dismiss others’ input before making decisions
Self-reliant and tough-minded; Excessively eager to please There is nothing wrong with
may seem insubordinate, may one’s superiors, telling them flattering your boss.
Ingratiating contradict others, or seem what they want to hear; seems
unwilling to play politics overly deferential and hesitant
to express strong opinions
Challenging, willing to express Takes pride in supporting one’s I take pride in being a good
opinions, but may come across superiors and following their follower.
as rebellious, defiant, or disloyal orders regardless of one’s
Conforming at times; may be inappropriately personal opinion; seems overly
challenging or contentious cooperative, obedient, and
excessively concerned with
compliance
19

Subscale Interpretive Guide MVPI
Introduction
The Motives, Values, Preferences Inventory (MVPI) identifies the core goals, values, drivers, and
interests that determine what kind of work people find fulfilling, how they fit into an organization, what
motivates them, and the type of people they like to interact with. The MVPI consists of 10 primary
scales, which are further divided into five subscales or item themes. The MVPI item themes provide
additional interpretive power by categorizing individuals’ responses to the questions that compose
each MVPI scale. Over the years, we have observed a growing need and customer demand for a
subscale format that is easier to interpret and understand, both for Hogan feedback recipients and the
professionals debriefing their results. The actual facets measured by the subscales are not changing;
just the method in which they’re presented.
Evolution of MVPI Subscales

Hogan regularly updates the MVPI to remain current and align with emerging research and experience.
These improvements build on the existing measurement properties of the MVPI and ensures more
accurate, intuitive interpretation of MVPI subscales. New features coming in early 2016 include:
• Updated Subscale Display: MVPI subscales will be presented in a cleaner, more intuitive visual
format.
· MVPI subscale updates will appear on the Values, Flash, and Insight Reports
· On these reports, each of the MVPI subscales are represented by visual bar charts
· These bar charts will replace the existing raw score “fraction” subscale indicators
• Updated Subscale Interpretive Guidelines: New format makes subscales easier to interpret.
· Subscale scores are now presented based on cumulative frequencies, indicating the relative
frequency of a given score compared to the global working population.
· This method allows presentation of subscale scores as a histogram organized into quartiles. In
other words, the bar charts will indicate the quartile in which an individual’s score falls.
• Psychometric Properties: Enhanced measurement mechanics.
· New format allows for easier, more seamless updates to MVPI norms
· Smoother process for updating assessment items as needed
20

MVPI Main Scales

The MVPI consists of 10 main scales and five subscale themes that repeat for each main scale. The
assessment items are short statements to which respondents answer “Agree”, “No Opinion”, or
“Disagree” based on how they think the item describes them. Results for primary scales are presented
and interpreted using percentiles, indicating a person’s values in relation to the global workforce.
MVPI Scale Summary

Below is a review of the MVPI primary scales, including behavioral implications for high and low scores:
SCALE LOWER SCORE ATTRIBUTES HIGHER SCORE ATTRIBUTES
Recognition • Prefer to share credit • Value public acknowledgment

Measures responsiveness to • Avoid calling attention to • Prefer high-visibility projects
attention, approval, and praise themselves
Power • Prefer to let other people lead • Value leadership positions

Measures desire for success, • Avoid confrontation and • Prefer opportunities to get
accomplishment, status, and control competition ahead
Hedonism • Value business-like and • Value colorful and entertaining

Measures orientation for fun, professional settings environments
pleasure, and enjoyment • Prefer serious and formal work • Prefer fun and open-minded
environments settings
Altruistic • Place more value on their own • Value helping other people
Measures desire to help others and work • Prefer customer-focused
contribute to society • Prefer productivity over morale environments
Affiliation • Prefer working alone or in • Prefer working with others or

Measures enjoyment and preference isolation on teams
for social interaction • Value independence • Value social interaction
Tradition • Prefer flexibility and autonomy • Prefer the status quo

Measures dedication to strong • Value challenging established • Avoid people that do not share
personal beliefs procedures beliefs
Security • Value risk taking and • Prefer consistency and

Measures need for predictability, experimentation predictability
structure, and order • Prefer adventurous settings • Avoid taking unnecessary risks
Commerce • Value relationships over • Prefer environments that focus

Measures interest in money, profitability on bottom line
profits, investment, and business • Less concerned about financial • Value activities related to
opportunities issues financial matters
Aesthetics • Value practicality over • Value innovation and creativity

Measures need for self-expression, appearance • Prefer individual style and
concern over look, feel, and design • Prefer routines and repetition appearance
of work products
Science • Prefer people over technology • Value analysis and problem

Measures interest in knowledge, • Value intuition and experience solving
research, technology, and data • Prefer working with data and
objective facts
21

Interpreting MVPI Subscales

Introduction
Each of the primary MVPI scales breaks down into a group of related subscales. Each of these
subscales has a label describing the item themes underlying the subscale. The MVPI subscales can be
used to deepen one’s understanding of how an individual’s values and motivations influence behavior in
the workplace. Subscales contribute immense richness to interpretation above and beyond main scale
scores.
How to Interpret MVPI Subscales

Each subscale will be presented as a bar chart, similar to the sample presented below. Each shaded box
(or bar) represents approximately one quartile. Quartiles are calculated using a cumulative frequency
analysis, indicating the relative frequency of a given score compared to the global working population.
Example: Science
Lifestyle High score: 4th Quartile (76-100%)
Beliefs Above average score: 3rd Quartile (51-75%)
Occupational Preferences Below average score: 2nd Quartile (26-50%)
Aversions Low score: 1st Quartile (1-25%)
Preferred Associates Invalid score: cannot score subscale*
Preferred Associates Minimum Score: 0 items endorsed*
Special Cases
Invalid Subscales: If a subscale cannot be scored, you will see a dashed line as shown in the first
Preferred Associates subscale above. This may happen if the person did not answer enough items
on that subscale to generate a valid score. An invalid score does not indicate that the person was
inconsistent or dishonest in their responses; rather it is simply an indication that the subscale could not
be scored.
Minimum Scores: : If a person endorsed zero of the items on any given subscale, none of the subscale
boxes will appear shaded as shown above in the second Preferred Associates subscale example. This
indicates the person received a zero, the minimum possible score on that subscale.
22

Previous Subscale Formats

If you have been using the Hogan assessments for some time now, you may be used to seeing the
subscales in a different format shown in the example below. This format is being retired in light of the
new subscale bar charts. Below is a side-by-side comparison between the old and new formats.
Sample Previous Subscale Format: Frequently Asked Questions:

Minimum / Observed / Maximum Q: Why change the subscale format?
Recognition
A: The MVPI scoring system made it difficult to use and
1. Lifestyle 5/11/15
2. Beliefs 3/8/9 understand raw scores. The new subscale display provides a more
3. Occupational Preferences 4/8/12
4. Aversions 4/9/12 intuitive way to interpret subscale scores. This will also drive
5. Preferred Associates 4/10/12
consistency across HPI, HDS, and MVPI subscale presentation.
Q: Can I see the conversion between the old subscale format (i.e., raw scores) and the corresponding
quartiles or bar charts?
A: No. In order to protect the integrity and intellectual property of the assessment items, we cannot
supply a conversion chart. Sample conversions presented below provide a general idea of how the new
format compares to the old.
Examples: Comparison between Old and New Subscale Format Using Science as an Example

9/12 2 Raw score 9/12 is at or below average
Lifestyle 8/12 2 Raw score 8/12 is at or below average
4/12 0 No bars are shaded if minimum score
From this example, we see that it is relatively rare for individuals to score between 4 and 7 on the
Lifestyle subscale for Science. Less than 25% of respondents in the global working population score
in this range, so whether the raw score is 4, 5, 6, or 7, this score deviates from the population enough
to warrant interpretive differences. Now, this information is “built in” to the subscales, drawing the
interpreter’s attention to scores that depart significantly from the norm.
23

MVPI Subscale item themes

The MVPI consists of ten primary scales, which contain the same five subscales: Lifestyle, Beliefs,
Occupational Preferences, Aversions, and Preferred Associates. Scores on these subscales may enhance
the interpretation and application of the MVPI.
When interpreting MVPI item themes, look for trends or inconsistencies. A trend indicates all high, all
middle, or all low item theme scores for a main scale. When you detect a trend, the item theme scores
are not likely to provide additional interpretive depth, so your interpretation can remain at the main
scale level. An inconsistency exists when one or a few of the item theme scores differ from the main
scale’s other item theme scores. A profile with inconsistencies can lead to a different or enhanced
interpretation of the main scale score. The table below provides some simple interpretation of high and
low MVPI subscale scores.
Subscale Description Low Score High Score
The manner in which a Individual is indifferent to living Individual is strongly

Lifestyle person would like to live their life according to the value motivated to live their life
their life according to the value
“Shoulds”, ideals, and Individual does not have any Individual holds strong
Beliefs universal life goals strong beliefs or opinions opinions and convictions
related to the value related to the value
The work an individual Individual is indifferent to Individual wants to work

Occupational
would like to do and what working in fields related to the in a field that is closely
Preferences
constitutes a good job value related to the value
Reflects attitudes and Individual does not hold Individual holds negative
behaviors that are either negative feelings or feelings or perceptions
Aversions
disliked or distressing perceptions toward things that toward things that run
run counter to the value counter to the value
The kind of people desired Individual is indifferent to Individual wants to

Preferred
as coworkers and friends interacting and associating interact and associate with
Associates
with others who have this value others who have this value
24

Sample MVPI Subscale Profiles

Example 1
Recognition 61
Lifestyle
Beliefs
Occupational Preferences
Aversions
Preferred Associates
Interpretation: This individual scored at the 61st percentile, indicating an above average score on Recognition.
Most of the subscales are above average in this example. In general, this individual has a strong interest in working
in a job that provides recognition (high Occupational Preferences). We also see above average scores on Beliefs,
Aversions, and Preferred Associates. This suggest that this individual believes others should seek out recognition,
they may get annoyed if that are not provided recognition, and they tend to enjoy the company of others who seek
out recognition. On the other hand, we see that this person scores low on the Lifestyle subscale. This suggests that
the person may not orient his or her life to consistently seek out opportunities to receive recognition.
Example 2
Affiliation 32
Lifestyle
Beliefs
Aversions
Interpretation: This individual scored at the 32nd percentile, indicating a below average value for Affiliation.
The individual scored high on the Aversions subscale suggesting that he or she is likely to become frustrated or
annoyed when not allowed the opportunity to interact and network with colleagues. The individual also scored
above average on Lifestyle and Preferred Associates indicating that he or she generally organizes their life in a way
that provides opportunities to interact and collaborate, and that he or she has an above average need to associate
with other people that seek out affiliation. However, this individual also scored low on the Beliefs and Occupational
Preferences subscales. This indicates that the individual does not strongly believe that other people should also be
seeking out opportunities to network and collaborate, and also does not need a job or career that provides similar
opportunities. It may be possible that Affiliation needs are being met outside the workplace.
25

Sample MVPI Subscale Profiles (continued)

Example 3
Aesthetics 52
Lifestyle
Beliefs
Aversions
Interpretation: This individual scored at the 52nd percentile, indicating a slightly above average score on
Aesthetics. The individual scored high on Beliefs, indicating a strong value towards others and society being
aesthetically oriented. This individual also scored above average on Occupational Preferences, indicating a
preference for jobs or careers that focus on aesthetics. However, we see below-average scores on the remaining
scales. This suggests that Aesthetics is a weaker driver for this individual as it relates to his or her Lifestyle,
Aversions, and Preferred Associates when compared to a global working population.
Example 4
Science 28
Lifestyle
Beliefs
Aversions
Interpretation: This individual scored at the 28th percentile, indicating a below average value for Science. This
individual scored high on Preferred Associates suggesting that he or she has a strong interest in interacting with
other science-minded individuals. This individual also scored above average on Beliefs, indicating a tendency to
believe that other people and society at large should value Science. However, the individual scored low to below
average on Lifestyle, Occupational Preferences, and Aversions, indicating more tolerance and flexibility around the
need for Science.
26


• Overall interpretation should not change dramatically based solely on subscale scores and should
instead be focused on the main scale interpretation
• Subscale scores should be used to specify which component behaviors contribute the greatest
weight, salience, and meaning to the overall scale score and accompanying behavioral implications
• As a general rule of thumb, subscales should only be highlighted when they add interpretive value
to the behavioral implications of the primary scales – not all subscales will yield critical information
27

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What are the main scales measured by the HPI?

What are the main scales measured by the HPI?

What are the behavioral implications of high and low scores on the Adjustment scale?

What are the behavioral implications of high and low scores on the Adjustment scale?

Subscale

HDS Hogan Development Survey

MVPI Motives, Values, Preferences Inventory

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Evolution of HPI Subscales

• Psychometric Properties: Enhanced measurement mechanics.

· Smoother process for updating assessment items as needed

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HPI Main Scales

HPI Scale Summary

SCALE LOWER SCORE ATTRIBUTES HIGHER SCORE ATTRIBUTES

Adjustment • Pessimistic, tense, & stress- • Resilient, optimistic, composed

Ambition • Lower confidence, drive, & • Forceful, may over-compete

Sociability • Socially reactive, lower-impact • Distractible, talks more than

Interpersonal Sensitivity • Direct, frank, straightforward • Potentially “too soft” with

Prudence • Resists supervision & • Rigid about details & rules

Inquisitive • Tactical, short-term view • Low process & execution focus

Learning Approach • Hands-on, practical, just-in- • Continuous traditional learning

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Interpreting HPI Subscales

How to Interpret HPI Subscales

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Previous Subscale Formats

Frequently Asked Questions:

Examples: Comparison between Old and New Subscale Format

Subscale Raw Score Quartile Subscale Bricks Notes

Subscale Raw Score Quartile Subscale Bricks Notes

0/6 0 No bars are shaded if 0 items are endorsed

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Sample HPI Subscale Profiles

Scale Name Score Percentile

Empathy Absence of irritability

Scale Name Score Percentile

Competitive Being competitive, ambitious, and persistent

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Sample HPI Subscale Profiles (continued)

Scale Name Score Percentile

Likes Parties Enjoys social gatherings

Scale Name Score Percentile

Easy to Live With Tolerant and easygoing nature

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Sample Profile Take-Aways

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The Evolution of the HDS

• Replacement of outdated assessment items

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Below are interpretive guidelines and ground rules to keep in mind:

Best Practices Cautions

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Sample HDS Subscale Profiles

Dimension Score Percentile

Prone to doubt others’ intentions and assume they

Example 2 – Low Skeptical score with subscales

Dimension Score Percentile