AN EXAMINATION OF THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENTS’ LEVELS OF ACADEMIC SELF-EFFICACY AND THEIR ATTITUDES TOWARD ACHIEVEMENT
Abstract
Aim: The purpose of this study is to determine the relationship between middle school students’ levels of academic self-efficacy and their achievement orientations, and to examine whether these variables differ according to certain sociodemographic characteristics. Methods: Conducted using a quantitative research approach within a cross-sectional and correlational survey model, the study sample consisted of 440 students aged 10–14 enrolled in four middle schools in Batman Province during the spring semester of the 2025–2026 academic year. Data were collected using a personal information form, an academic self-efficacy measurement tool, and the 2×2 Achievement Orientations Scale. Descriptive statistics, the t-test for independent samples, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), and Pearson correlation analysis were used to analyze the data. Results: It was determined that students’ academic self-efficacy and achievement orientation scores differed according to certain sociodemographic characteristics, such as gender, age, grade level, parental education level, family income level, and the availability of a dedicated study space at home. No significant differences were found based on school type. Positive and significant relationships were found between the total academic self-efficacy score and the learning-approach, learning-avoidance, performance-approach, and performance-avoidance orientations. The strongest relationship with academic self-efficacy was found to be with the learning-approach orientation. Conclusion: The findings of this study indicate that middle school students’ academic self-efficacy is closely related to their achievement orientations and that these constructs should be evaluated in conjunction with individual, family, and environmental characteristics. It is recommended that school- and family-based supportive interventions be developed to strengthen students’ academic self-efficacy and learning-oriented achievement orientations.
Keywords
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References
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Details
Primary Language
English
Subjects
Child Development Education
Journal Section
Research Article
Authors
Ramazan İnci
*
0000-0002-6855-4574
Türkiye
Publication Date
October 19, 2026
Submission Date
August 18, 2026
Acceptance Date
September 29, 2026
Published in Issue
Year 2026 Volume: 9 Number: 17