Exploring the Interplay between Stress Perception and Approach-Avoidance Achievement Goal Orientation among Rural...

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Educational Psychology
• Sociology

Background:

• College students, particularly those from rural backgrounds in China, face unique stressors.
• Understanding the interplay between stress and academic motivation is crucial for student well-being and success.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the longitudinal relationship between stress perception and achievement goals (approach and avoidance) among rural college students in China.
• To identify potential reciprocal influences between stress and different types of achievement goals over time.

Main Methods:

• A longitudinal survey design was employed, collecting data across two waves.
• A random intercept cross-lagged panel model was utilized to analyze data from 15 public universities in Beijing.
• The study focused on Chinese rural students transitioning from junior to senior years.

Main Results:

• A significant decrease in perceived stress was observed from junior to senior years.
• Achievement goal orientations remained stable during this period.
• A significant positive reciprocal relationship was found between avoidance goals and stress perception, while approach goals showed no significant association with stress.

Conclusions:

• Avoidance goal orientation may exacerbate stress perception among rural college students, creating a detrimental cycle.
• Educational institutions should implement targeted support systems (academic, employment, interpersonal) to mitigate stress.
• Further research is recommended to explore the impact of diverse demographics and emotional states on stress and achievement goals.