Participation in group goal setting: Some novel findings and a comprehensive model as a new ending to an old story

A new model of participation in group goal setting (PGGS) is presented. The model consists of (a) mediator variables (e.g. group cohesion, identificat ion with the group, potency beliefs) that explain why PGGS might affect mot ivation and group performance, and (b) moderator variables that foster or h inder the development of these effects (e.g. group composition regarding fe ar of social rejection). Several assumptions of the model were tested in an experiment using a group brainstorming task. Challenging group goals (assi gned or participatively set) improved group performance, promoted identific ation with the group, and improved the readiness for social compensation, b ut there was no overall effect of PGGS on group performance. However, as pr edicted, participation alleviated anxiety and groups of highly anxious pers ons showed enhanced performance due to PGGS. Interestingly, PGGS also decre ased group cohesion and intrinsic motivation, probably due to the revelatio n of goal conflicts during group discussions. These findings suggest that c urrent theories of goal setting and participation have to be extended in va rious ways.