The Effects of Intergroup Competition and Assigned Group Goals on Group Efficacy and Group Effectiveness

Abstract

Goal setting and competition are two motivation techniques that are thought to have similar effects on goal variables and performance. This study tests the proposition that assigned goals and competition are similar in their effect. The effects of intergroup competition and assigned group goals on a group’s efficacy, goals, productivity, and inefficiency were tested, using 351 undergraduate business students in 117 production work groups, in a 2x2 design. Intergroup competition increased the groups’efficacy, goals, and productivity and decreased inefficiency. Assigned goals increased group productivity. Results do not provide initial support for the proposition that assigned goals and competition have similar effects. Researchers and practitioners should be aware of the potential confounding effects of competition on the goal-setting process and goal-setting interventions.

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