Locke: Motivtion Through Conscious Goal Setting Flashcards
(20 cards)
What does goal-setting theory propose about motivation?
It proposes that conscious performance goals regulate effort, attention, and persistence, significantly influencing task performance.
What philosophical stance underpins goal-setting theory?
It accepts consciousness and volition as causal, opposing materialist and deterministic models.
How does goal-setting theory differ from earlier motivational theories?
It focuses on conscious, purposeful action rather than subconscious drives or external reinforcers.
What is the effect of goal difficulty on performance?
More difficult goals lead to higher performance, assuming commitment and ability.
How does goal specificity affect performance?
Specific goals guide performance more precisely than vague goals.
What combination of goals leads to the highest performance?
Goals that are both specific and difficult.
When is goal commitment most important?
When goals are both specific and difficult.
What two beliefs enhance goal commitment?
- Belief that the goal is important
- Belief that the goal is attainable
How does self-efficacy influence performance?
It affects goal choice, commitment, response to failure, and use of strategies.
How does feedback affect goal-setting effectiveness?
Feedback enhances performance when it shows progress relative to the goal.
How does goal-setting affect motivation mechanisms?
It influences direction, intensity, and persistence of effort.
What role does planning play in goal achievement?
Goals stimulate planning; specific, difficult goals encourage better strategic thinking.
What hinders strategy development in complex tasks?
Lack of experience, performance pressure, and time constraints.
What do goals and self-efficacy mediate?
They mediate the impact of feedback, participation, incentives, and personality traits on performance.
Can goal-setting be self-directed?
Yes, through self-management techniques like personal goal setting and internal rewards.
How do goals affect emotional satisfaction?
Harder goals lead to lower satisfaction despite higher achievement, due to raised standards.
What’s an example of applying goal-setting in academia?
Helping a junior professor secure tenure by setting publication goals, tracking progress, and building confidence.
What makes goal-setting theory robust?
It’s supported by over 500 studies across varied populations, tasks, and contexts.
How does goal-setting theory relate to other motivation theories?
It aligns with social-cognitive and expectancy theories but challenges intrinsic motivation and control theory.
Can goal-setting backfire?
Yes, if goals are unrealistic, conflicting, rigid, or if they suppress strategic flexibility or well-being.
