The Role of Achievement Goals in Prediction of Achievement Emotions: Validation of Pekrun's Theory

The aim of the study was to investigate the role achievement goals play in positive and negative achievement emotions among university students. One hundred and sixty one students were selected (95 females, 66 males) from Shiraz University using the multi-stage cluster random sampling. The participants completed the Aachievement Goals Questionnaire (Elliot & McGregor, 2001) and the Achievement emotions Questionnaire (Pekrun, Goetz, Titz & Perry, 2002). The results of multiple regression analysis indicated that mastery/approach goal positively and significantly predicted enjoyment, hope and pride, and negatively and significantly predicted boredom, anxiety and shame. Mastery/avoidance goal was positive and significant predictor of shame, and performance/avoidance goal was positive and significant predictor of shame, anxiety and boredom. The findings suggested that achievement goals play effective role in students’ emotional experiences across achievement settings.