How the Interaction of Domain and Situational Achievement Goals Influences Task Performance.

Abstract

This thesis theoretically and empirically explores the application of achievement goal theory (AGT) for improving task performance. As one of most influential social-cognitive theories of achievement motivation, AGT has provided insight into the application of approach-based achievement goals by coaches and teachers to enhance performance. However, the question remains, which of the approach-based goals is the best? Using five empirical studies this thesis explores the consequences of the interaction between individuals’ domain goals and situationally imposed mastery and performance-approach goals on facilitating task performance.
Study 1 (N = 15) piloted a methodology to examine the effects of the interaction between situational and domain goal congruency on sequence recall and goal valuation. Study 2 (N = 79) transitioned to the sport domain and considered the consequences of goal congruency for state anxiety, goal valuation, and reaction time performance. Study 3 (N = 129) embedded the methodological modifications noted in previous chapters and replicated an exploration of the facilitatory effects of congruent performance-approach goals identified in study 1. Study 4 (N = 81) then explored variations in the goal congruency relationship using a more complex physical task via the Speed, Time, Accuracy, Reaction, Response machine.
The thesis contributes to a limited literature that uses within-subjects designs to investigate achievement goals and task performance. It provides initial evidence to affirm the importance of domain goals, the differentiation between imposed and adopted situational goals, and the need to consider the integrative effects on task performance. It also provides data that challenges previous notions of the debilitating effects of performance goals. Overall, the thesis advocates both the need for consistent conceptualisation and operationalisation of achievement goals and the consideration of the interacting relationships of AGT components.