The internal structure of enthusiasm: a prototype analysis

Abstract The term enthusiasm is used frequently in both day-to-day language and professional settings. Scientifically, however, enthusiasm is not clearly defined. It is conceptualized and measured in different ways. In the present research, we examined the internal structure of enthusiasm. First, 28 features of enthusiasm were identified (Study 1.1) and rated on their centrality (Study 1.2). Results showed that features indicating joy and motivation were rated as central to the concept of enthusiasm, whereas features indicating restlessness and impatience were rated as less central. The validity of the central features was supported in three follow-up studies. More specifically, we found that the more central features were recalled better (Study 2.1), recognized faster (Study 2.2), and more often mentioned in autobiographical recalls of enthusiasm (Study 2.3). Taken together, the findings indicate that enthusiasm is prototypically structured, and that prototypical enthusiasm is a positive, energetic feeling that is associated with goal orientation and often involves interpersonal contact.