Einleitung

The extensive application of Nicholls' (1989) achievement goal theory has led to an enhanced appreciation of human behaviour and a realisation that behavioural processes hinge on the quality of thought or perception as opposed to merely a quantity of innate desire. However, as the body of knowledge has developed on achievement goals in the sport domain, it is our contention that a closer look needs to be afforded to the process by which achievement goal theory has been operationalised in the context of competitive sport. The purpose of this presentation is to appraise and critique the conceptualisation and measurement of achievement goals with sole reference to the competitive sport context. Our objectives lie in aiding the definition and understanding of task and ego goal perspectives in competitive sport in order to assist in promoting an accurate and valid measurement technology for this domain. Einleitung