Investigating the Relationship between Task-Related Affect and Task Persistence

Abstract

Although theories of affect-behavior relationships have emerged as prevalent explanations for individuals’ level of task effort, there continues to be several possible relationships between affective states and effort as explained by prior literature. In the present study we utilize samples of individuals engaged in student business start-ups to add to the literature on affect-behavior relationships. Specifically, we use a two-study design to investigate the relationship between task-related affect and task persistence. Findings across the two studies suggest that task-related positive affect is positively associated with task persistence. In addition, results from Study 1 indicate a moderating effect of self-set goals on the affect-persistence relationship. A moderated (trait-arousal) mediation (task-related cognition) model of the affect-persistence relationship is tested and supported in Study 2. Implications of the findings are discussed.