Work

Social and dimensional comparisons of achievement in multifaceted task value formation among adolescents

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: Students routinely compare their achievement across different subjects (dimensional comparison) and against that of their peers (social comparison). Yet, it is unclear how these comparison processes influence their task values (intrinsic, attainment, utility, cost) and the observed gender differences in these values. Utilizing structural equation models, we tested the associations between Grade 7 achievement (in Finnish and math) and Grade 8 task values among 1325 Finnish students ( M age at Grade 7 = 12.8 years, 52 % girls). We observed positive social comparison (within-domain) effects on all value facets, and partial negative dimensional comparison (cross-domain) effects: higher Finnish achievement was associated with lower intrinsic value and higher cost in math. Despite outperforming boys in Finnish and math, girls reported lower intrinsic value and higher cost in math – effects not explained by achievement comparisons. These results imply that task values development may rely on comparisons of other factors beyond individual achievement.

Source: Learning and Individual Differences

DOI: 10.1016/j.lindif.2024.102534

Authors: Kezia Olive, Junlin Yu, Janica Vinni-Laakso, Katariina Salmela-Aro

Institution: University of Helsinki

Language: English

Topic: Education, Achievement, and Giftedness

Subfield: Experimental and Cognitive Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Quality education, Reduced inequalities

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,530