Extending the 2 × 2 Achievement Goal Framework: Development of a Measure of Scientific Achievement Goals

Abstract

The current research sought to extend the 2 × 2 achievement goal framework by developing and testing the Achievement Goals for Research Scale (AGRS). Participants (N = 317) consisted of graduate students in the life, physical, and behavioral sciences. A principal components analysis (PCA) extracted five components accounting for 72.59% of the variance in the data. Additional confirmatory factor analytic testing yielded support for a 6-factor model in which the performance factor was bifurcated into approach and avoidance components. The final solution comprised the following 6 subscales: (a) absolute task mastery goals; (b) incremental task mastery goals; (c) mastery avoidance goals; (d) performance approach goals; (e) performance avoidance goals; and (f) self-demonstration of competence goals. The 6-factor model was found to outperform alternative 5-, 3-, and 2-factor models. Preliminary evidence of convergent and discriminant validity was evidenced by way of relations with measures of academic achievement motivation, behavioral inhibition/activation sensitivity, fear of failure, self-handicapping, and decisional procrastination. Future research directions and implications for career assessment and achievement goal theory are discussed.