The Influence of Affect on Goal Choice and Task Performance

The present study investigated the influence of mood on self‐set goals and task performance. Results from 2 studies suggest a restricted view of mood effects in which affective state influences the level of self‐set goals or task performance, but not both. Study 2 reveals asymmetrical mood effects on task performance, with positive‐ and negative‐mood participants exceeding the baseline performance of neutral mood participants. Evidence indicates that goal‐setting instructions may alter how individuals interpret motivational implications of mood. Although theory implies an inclusive view in which mood has both direct and indirect (through goal‐setting) performance effects, the conflicting influences of affect infusion at different points of the goal‐striving process may diminish the likelihood of observing inclusive effects.