Mapping the Nomological Network of Outcome Goals

• In Event: Poster Session 13
  In Poster Session: Division C Section 2a Poster Session 1: Motivational Processes

Abstract

Research has shown that students’ maximal levels of aspiration (MLA) and minimal boundary goals (MBG) jointly predict subsequent achievement, over and above other school- and student-related factors. However, it is currently unknown what mechanisms underlie the predictive prowess of MLA and MBG. To advance knowledge of these aspects, this research proposes and tests a model linking key antecedents of MLA and MBG. The analysis of data from 463 secondary-school students reveals that students who invested effort in their learning and did not endorse an entity view of intelligence had high levels of aspiration. In contrast, students who had a strong entity view of intelligence, were afraid to fail, and made little effort to study adopted low boundary goals.

Authors

• Flaviu A. Hodis, Victoria University of Wellington

• Georgeta M Hodis, Massey University