Identity-Based Motivation (IBM) Among University Students

Abstract

Identity-based motivation (IBM) is one of the key psychological factors influencing individuals' behavior toward achieving their personal and professional goals. This concept suggests that people are more likely to be motivated to pursue goals when they possess a strong sense of identity that aligns with those goals. The present study aims to explore the following: The level of identity-based motivation among university students. Statistically significant differences in personal striving according to the variables of gender (male/female) and academic major (scientific/humanities). To achieve the study’s objectives, the researcher developed a scale based on Oyserman’s (2007) theory of identity-based motivation. The scale consists of 24 items distributed across three domains: dynamic construction, action readiness, and difficulty interpretation. The psychometric properties of the scale (validity and reliability) were verified: face validity and construct validity were confirmed, and reliability was assessed using the test–retest method and Cronbach's alpha. The test–retest reliability coefficient was (0.81), and Cronbach’s alpha was (0.83). The scale was applied to a sample of 400 students male and female, from scientific and humanities disciplines at Dhi Qar University for the academic year 2024–2025. The data were analyzed using appropriate statistical tools such as one-sample t-test, Pearson’s correlation coefficient, and the independent samples t-test, through SPSS software. The results revealed: The university student sample exhibited a clear presence of identity-based motivation. There were no statistically significant differences in identity-based motivation according to gender or academic major.