Poster #11 - An Analysis of Competing Achievement Goal Theoretical Models: A Meta-Analytic Confirmatory Factor Analysis of Two Scales

• In Event: 15.062 - MTCC Poster Session One
  In Poster Session: 15.062-2 - Contemporary Issues in Motivation Research Models of Motivation: Theoretical and Applied Advances

Abstract

Achievement goal theory has undergone multiple revisions and iterations in its history. Notably, a trichotomous model emerged over time contrasting mastery-approach goals with performance-approach and performance-avoidance goals. Later theorists proposed the addition of mastery-avoidance, creating a 2x2 model. However, there is still widespread use of both models in applied research. We compared measurement models two popular scales, the PALS and the AGQ-R using meta-analytic confirmatory factor. Results indicated that, regardless of the measure, a three-factor model excluding mastery-avoidance was the best fit for the observed data. This study has implications for ongoing conversations in achievement goal theory, and implies that mastery-avoidance is either poorly measured at present, or that the model is more viable without that construct entirely.

Authors

• Kamden Strunk, Auburn University

• Jasmine Betties

• Wilson Lester, Auburn University