achievement goal theory

aconceptualization of motivation that identifies two types of achievement goals, task-oriented (see task orientation) and ego-oriented (see ego orientation), and that relates these to differences in individuals’ perceived ability for the task and their achievement behavior. This theory emerged from the work of educational psychologists and subsequently was modified for use in sport psychology as well.

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Psychology term of the day

January 2nd 2025

anxious–resistant attachment

in the Strange Situation, a form of insecure attachment in which an infant appears anxious in the parent’s presence, distressed in the parent’s absence, and angry upon the parent’s return, often resisting contact with him or her.