Using a two-factor theory of achievement motivation to examine performance-based outcomes and self-regulatory processes

Abstract

Many researchers agree that achievement motivation represents a multidimensional concept. We employed a two-factor theory of achievement motivation (intrinsic and extrinsic factors) to predict three achievement-related factors: generalized expectancy for success, need for cognition, and self-reinforcement. As predicted, intrinsic achievement motivation was positively associated with scores on all three achievement-related factors, whereas extrinsic achievement motivation was positively related only to generalized expectancy for success. Subsequent regression analyses revealed that intrinsic achievement motivation better predicted all three factors than did extrinsic achievement motivation. Implications for employing a two-factor model of achievement motivation are presented for both basic and applied applications.