The work avoidance goal construct: Examining its structure, antecedents, and consequences

Ronnel Bornasal KING, Dennis Michael MCINERNEY

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlespeer-review

95 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Work avoidance goals have been relatively neglected in the literature with most research focusing on mastery and performance goals. The central aim of this study was to examine the structure, antecedents, and consequences of the work avoidance goal construct. Four studies were conducted. Study 1 investigated the construct validity of work avoidance, while Study 2 focused on its antecedents. Using a longitudinal panel design, Study 3 examined the impact of work avoidance—alongside mastery and performance goals—on engagement and achievement, while Study 4 explored its relationship to broader well-being outcomes. Results showed that work avoidance was distinct from mastery and performance goals. Entity theory of intelligence positively predicted work avoidance goal pursuit, while teacher and peer support buffered against it. Pursuing work avoidance goals was found to be associated with less engagement, lower grades, and greater negative affect. The impact of work avoidance on achievement and well-being outcomes seem to be more salient compared to the oft-examined mastery and performance goals. Implications are discussed. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)42-58
JournalContemporary Educational Psychology
Volume39
Issue number1
Early online dateJan 2014
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2014

Citation

King, R. B., & McInerney, D. M. (2014). The work avoidance goal construct: Examining its structure, antecedents, and consequences. Contemporary Educational Psychology, 39(1), 42-58.

Keywords

  • Work avoidance goals
  • Achievement goals
  • Engagement
  • Well-being
  • Filipino students

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