Adolescents’ Goal Complexes Across the Transition: Profile Dynamics and Developmental Trajectories (Stage 1, 9:59 AM)

• In Event: e-Lightning Ed-Talk Session 21 - Stage 1

Abstract

Drawing on Niemivirta’s (2002) framework, this study surveyed 2,448 Chinese middle school students over two waves across one year, using latent transition and mediation analyses. Five achievement goal profiles were identified: Indifferent Goals, Low-Aspiration Goals, Success-Oriented Goals, Work-Avoidant Goals, and Non-Competitive goals. Profiles showed moderate stability, with 51.9% of students remaining unchanged. The Indifferent and Success-Oriented groups were most stable. Negative transitions were more common. Transitions often centered around the Indifferent group. Trait competitiveness and perceived classroom competitiveness significantly predicted profile transitions. Twenty-five transition paths were grouped into five types. Cognitive and emotional engagement mediated the associations between transition types and school well-being. Findings suggest implications for targeted interventions.

Authors

• Shuyu Chen, East China Normal University

• Yi Jiang, East China Normal University