Interest and Uncertainty in Cross-Cultural Experience: The Influence of Goal Orientation

This study tested the respective learning (LGO) and performance approach goal orientation (PGO) effects on individual interest in cross-cultural development opportunities. Two studies found support for the positive effects of LGO on interest in professional and educational opportunities in international cultures. We also found evidence of a positive LGO relationship with interest in cross-cultural development opportunities when dissimilarity with respect to institutional affiliation was introduced as part of the cross-cultural experience. In contrast, PGO was positively associated with uncertainty, and uncertainty mediated the relationship between PGO and interest. Study 2 identified conditions under which PGO was associated with uncertainty. We discuss implications for theory and practice.