Progress Oriented Appraisal Styles and Action Tendencies Predict Goal Termination Outcomes

Abstract

Goals are representations of desired future outcomes. A goal is said to be active when it directs behavior, and deactivated when no longer directs behavior. A positivity bias protects active goals from delays, frustration and doubts. This means the positivity bias can sustain low quality goals and lead to futile persistence. This research investigates whether concrete steps and progress monitoring could accelerate the breakdown of the positivity bias and lead to goal re-evaluation. The hypothesis was not supported. Results show that goals seem to be a function of affect in that they are sustained by positive affect and deactivated by negative affect. Negative affect leading to an action crisis remains the only identified pathway to goal deactivation.