A Movement Pattern Analysis profile reflects how an individual balances Assertion (the exertion of tangible movement effort to make something happen) with Perspective (positioning oneself to get a better view of the situation). In the pilot study group, some individuals emphasized Assertion, while others favored Perspective.
The hypothesis was that those high on Assertion would need less information and come to a decision more quickly than those high in Perspective. And this proved to be the case. With regard to these two dimensions, the MPA profile showed predictive validity.
This pilot study focused on the utility of using movement-based observational measures to capture individual difference in decision-making. Wide use of MPA profiles in business (where some companies have employed it in management teams for two – three decades) has established face validity of the profile. That is, MPA profiles appear accurate and practically useful.
This more recent study has implications for applying movement-based observational methods in a broader context — to the investigation of experienced military and political leaders. Find out more – http://journal.frontiersin.org/article/10.3389/fpsyg.2013.00658/full.