Motivational Predictors of Coping With Academic Examination

ABSTRACT

The present study focused on the motivational predictors of coping with academic examination through the test of the contribution of self-determination for academic studies and achievement goals. Coping strategies, academic motivation and achievement goals were assessed among 199 undergraduate students. Regression analysis revealed that problem-focused coping is positively predicted by identified regulation and negatively by amotivation, whereas emotion-focused coping is positively predicted by introjected regulation and amotivation. Mastery approach goals contributed positively to problem-focused coping. Identified regulation and mastery approach goals made a unique positive contribution to problem-focused coping, and amotivation was negatively related. Students' coping actions may vary according to both the reasons why they engage in academic studies and the goals they pursue in this setting.

Keywords:

• academic examination
• achievement goals
• coping
• self-determination

Notes

1. All R² values are adjusted R² .

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Christine Le Scanff

Julie Doron, PhD, is a Post-Doctor of Sport Sciences at the University of Montpellier in France. Her research interests include the motivational antecents and consequences of coping in achievement situation. Yannick Stephan, PhD, is an Associate Professor of Sport Sciences at the University of Grenoble I in France. His research interests focus on processes that underlying maintain and promotion of the psychological well-being and physical health. Christophe Maiano, PhD, is an Associate Professor of Sport Sciences at the University of Aix-Marseille II in France. His research interests include physical activity, health, handicap, psychometry, psychology and psychosociolgy. Christine Le Scanff, PhD, is a Professor of Sport Sciences at the University of Paris-Sude II in France. Her research interests focus on the psychological predictors of risk-taking behaviours and on stress adaptation to difficult conditions.