ERIC Number: ED101244
Record Type: Non-Journal
Publication Date: 1974-Jul
Pages: 24
Abstractor: N/A
ISBN: N/A
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Probability of Success in Multiple Trial Tasks: Implications for Atkinson's Theory of Motivation and Risk Taking Behavior.
Hamilton, J. Ogden
In a variable distance 10-trial ringtoss, it was found that success required that a subject exceed his expected score. Therefore, the probability of success was the probability of exceeding the expected score on the 10 throws (Ps10); and this is shown to be different from the probability of scoring a ringer in a single throw (Ps1) from the same distance. Earlier results presented in support of Atkinson's theory of risk-taking behavior used the same experimental method but tested the theory against Ps1. The same data do not support the theory when analyzed against Ps10. It is suggested that in a multiple trial task, Ps1 represents not a probability of success, but a long term performance level, and that success or failure in any one trial is of small importance. Because these conditions do not meet the explicit assumptions of Atkinson's theory, a new approach is required to explain the reported motive-related differences in preference for moderate probability of success in multiple trial tasks. (Author)
Descriptors: Behavioral Science Research, Expectation, Motivation, Performance Factors, Research Projects, Risk, Success, Task Performance
J. Ogden Hamilton, Department of Administrative and Behavioral Studies, Graduate School of Business, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana 47401
Publication Type: Reports - Research
Education Level: N/A
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Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A