The purpose of this study was to test instrumentality theory predictions of work effort. The amount of effort exerted on various tasks by a group of faculty members at a large university in the U.S. was examined. It was found that the modifications of the theory generally led to improved predictions of effort. (JB)

Compares the accuracy of the predictions of four descriptive theories of coalition behavior, all of which assume that the participants are motivated to maximize their rewards. (Author/RK)

A critical analysis of theoretical and methodological issues in research on learned helplessness is presented. As studied in achievement settings using achievement tasks, learned helplessness is perceived as maladaptive behavior. It has not been studied as an adaptive response to situational demands. New directions and educational implications are…

Motivational psychology and test theory are compared in this discussion, which focuses on distinguishing the effects of motivation and of ability on test performance and educational achievement. Recent theory in achievement motivation considers the motivational significance of future goals as they affect present activities that are instrumental in…

In this overview of his research in personality theory, Cattell describes the play of people, situations, and, ideas enacted over 30 years in his University of Illinois laboratory. Establishing meaningful empirical measurement methods was the foundation for further research into many aspects of personality development. (BS)