Generational differences and parent-child resemblance in achievement motives and locus of control: A cross-sectional analysis

https://doi.org/10.1016/0191-8869(89)90235-3Get rights and content

Abstract

Recently, there has been increased interest in the role of stable individual differences in so-called personal constructs (e.g. motivation, affect) as determinants of work performance. This study examines: (1) parent-child resemblance in achievement motivation and locus of control, and (2) generational differences in these variables using the WOFO and I–E scales. Results offer convincing evidence for the lack of direct relationship between parent achievement motivation and locus of control on child ratings for these scales. The results are discussed in light of the importance of discovering the antecedents of achievement motivation and locus of control dispositions, especially as they affect behavior in the workplace.

References (16)

  • R.D. Arvey et al.

    Job satisfaction: environmental and genetic components

    J. appl. Psychol.

    (1989)
  • T.J. Bouchard et al.

    Familial studies of intelligence: a review

    Science

    (1981)
  • C.S. Dweck et al.

    A social-cognitive approach to motivation and personality

    Psychol. Rev.

    (1988)
  • R.L. Helmreich et al.

    Work and family orientation questionnaire: an objective instrument to assess components of achievement motivation and attitudes toward family and career

  • R.L. Helmreich et al.

    The honeymoon effect in job performance: temporal increases in the predictive power of achievement motivation

    J. appl. Psychol.

    (1986)
  • J.R. Hollenbeck et al.

    Goal commitment and the goal setting process: problems, prospects, and proposals for future research

    J. appl. Psychol.

    (1987)
  • L.M. Hough

    Overcoming objections to the use of temperament variables in selection

    (1987, August)
  • R. Kanfer

    Motivation theory and industrial/organizational psychology

There are more references available in the full text version of this article.

Cited by (0)

View full text
Copyright © 1989 Published by Elsevier Ltd.