Motivation, cognition, and action: An analysis of studies of task goals and knowledge

This paper begins by analysing the nature of cognition and of motivation, e specially as they relate to the operation of the subconscious. The interdep endence of cognition and motivation is demonstrated. This interdependence i s then illustrated through an analysis of studies on goal setting and task strategies (task knowledge) in relation to task performance. Three types of relationships have been found: direct, separate effects of goals and strat egies; interactions between goals and strategies (moderation); and the medi ation of goal effects by strategies. It is argued that there is really one underlying model that accounts for all of these findings. There are two pat hs to performance, one motivated by goals and another motivated by other fa ctors. Each is or can be associated with relevant task knowledge. "Direct" goal effects occur when the subjects already possess relevant task knowledg e, but that knowledge is not measured. (If it were measured, there would be mediation.) Direct strategy effects occur when subjects are motivated to d iscover or use relevant strategies by (unmeasured) motives that are not a p roduct of the performance goal. Moderation occurs when there is no task kno wledge tied to the goals but knowledge derives from other sources, which co mbines with goals to produce performance. Mediation occurs when goals produ ce measured task knowledge, which, when controlled, vitiates the goal effec t. This model suggests ideas for further research.