Trait dominance predicts risk-taking

The present research was designed to test the relationship between an under-appreciated individual difference measure, trait dominance, and financial risk-taking. One hundred twenty participants completed the trait Pleasure-Arousal-Dominance (PAD) Scales, and then answered five questions requiring the selection between a guaranteed financial payment and a risky financial gamble. Using the total number of risky options selected as a measure of risk-taking behavior, results reveal that trait dominance significantly predicted increased risk-taking. Surprisingly, gender did not predict risk-related decision-making. Results are discussed with regard to possible appraisal processes underlying the observed relationship, and ideas for future research are presented.