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The Relationship Between Group Experimental Level of Aspiration Measures and Self-Estimates of Personality

Author(s):
Ricciuti, Henry N.
Publication Year:
1954
Report Number:
RB-54-11
Source:
ETS Research Bulletin
Document Type:
Report
Page Count:
27
Subject/Key Words:
Office of Naval Research, Aspiration, Cognitive Ability, Group Testing, Self Evaluation (Individuals)

Abstract

This research was concerned with the relationship between the individual's level of aspiration in regard to performance on cognitive tasks, and self-perceptions and desires with respect to various personality traits. Results indicated that the level of aspiration on the cognitive tasks was not related to over-all self-criticalness, or dissatisfaction with self. However, high aspiration level tended to be associated somewhat with a relatively favorable self-appraisal on a cluster of ability traits, and with the desire to attain a more favorable status even when present status is reported as already being very high. Individuals showing the two characteristics just mentioned tended not only to set high aspirations on the cognitive tasks, but also to adjust their aspirations from trial to trial with little regard to preceding upward or downward shifts in performance. The results suggest that several of the measures under study may reflect the intensity of the individual's desire to approximate the ideal self even when the present self-image is highly favorable.

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