Effects of Failure Experiences on Configural Properties of the Aspiration Level Concept
To explore further possible multidimensionality of the aspiration level concept and to test the relationship between increased threat during performance experiences and degree of dimensional complexity, subjects responded to 9 definitions of aspiration during pre-task and post-failure conditions. Cluster analyses indicated that not only were more dimensions of aspiration utilized, but dimensions were also more independent, during post-failure conditions of assessment. Content of the different dimensions suggested that aspirations set after failure serve qualitatively different functions than those stated under less intense conditions. Also, while the aspiration component made up of calculated, realistic estimates of performance was very stable across conditions, hopeful and futuristic pretentions interacted complexly with performance feedback to produce less stable components. It was concluded that further empirical attention to these latter components might be more productive, in terms of adding to aspiration level theory, than the usual practice of assessing only realistic estimates of future performance.