A structural equation model of achievement orientation effects on intrinsic motivation

Abstract

Theory suggests a relationship between achievement motivation, goals, and the ways in which success influences intrinsic motivation. Structural equation modeling was used to evaluate existing theories of achievement motivation, goals, success, and intrinsic motivation and to explore the relationships among these variables. Achievement motivation was assessed by the Personality Research Form (Jackson, 1989), the Work & Family Orientation Questionnaire (Helmreich & Spence, 1978), the Fear of Failure Scale (Herman, 1990), and the Test Anxiety Inventory (Spielberger, 1980). Goals were assessed by a modified version of the Achievement Goals Questionnaire (Elliot & Church, 1997) and intrinsic motivation was assessed via self-report and free-choice behavior. The two-step approach to structural equation modeling was employed (Anderson & Gerbing, 1998). Results found that goals mediated the relationship between achievement motivation and intrinsic motivation. Mastery goals mediated the relationship between the need to achieve and self-reports of intrinsic motivation. Performance-approach and performance-avoidance goals mediated the relationship between fear of failure and the behavioral measure of intrinsic motivation. Results suggest the necessity of assessing both self-reports and behavioral measures of intrinsic motivation.