A Self-Determination Theory Perspective on the Big-Fish-Little-Pond Effect

• In Event: Poster Session 5
  In Poster Session: Motivation in Education SIG: Poster Session 1 of 2

Abstract

The Big-Fish-Little-Pound-Effect (BFLPE) hypothesizes that class-average achievement has a negative effect on students’ academic self-concept. According to Self-Determination Theory (SDT), such a negative effect would be attenuated among students’ perceiving a high degree of autonomy support from their parents, teachers, and friends. We have tested these potential moderation effects in a sample of 1407 high school students. Results from regression analyses indicate that the BFLPE is not moderated by any sources of autonomy support (friends, mother, father, or teachers). These results are in line with past studies showing the robustness of the BFLPE across different educational and individual characteristics. Results are discussed in light of BFLPE and SDT.

Author

• Frederic Guay, Université Laval