In: Psychological Reports, 124 (2021), Nr. 5. pp. 2180-2202. ISSN 0033-2941 (Druck-Ausg.), 1558-691X (Online-Ausg.)

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Abstract

In two studies, we investigated the role of self-regulatory behavior in terms of achievement goals and goal progress for work engagement. Study 1 (N=205)revealed that trait learning goals were positively related to work engagement and performance-approach and performance-avoidance goals were unrelated to work engagement. In a second study, employees were asked to either set a (state) learning,performance-approach, or performance-avoidance goal for the upcoming work week. Goal progress and work engagement were measured one week later(N=106). Learning goals at the trait and state level were associated with higher work engagement and performance-avoidance goals were unrelated to work engagement. We found a positive relationship of goal progress with work engagement,in particular for employees who pursued learning or performance-approach goals.Our studies contribute to theory building by delineating the (combined) role of goal orientations (trait), state achievement goals, and goal progress for work engagement,