Prediction of academic achievement using the Edwards need Achievement scale

Abstract

A study of the utility of the Edwards need Achievement scale (n Ach) as (a) a supplement to academic aptitude tests, and (b) a predictor of over- and underachievement. Ss were 61 male college sophomores. A correlational analysis was carried out among the following measures: Edwards n Ach, Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT), grade-point average (GPA), and a derived measure of over- and underachievement. The results indicated (a) no increment in prediction of GPA when n Ach scores were added to SAT scores in a multiple regression equation, and (b) little success in predicting over- and underachievement from n Ach scores. Implications for the construct validation of the Edwards n Ach scale were discussed. The use of individual course grades as alternative criteria of academic achievement was explored. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2025 APA, all rights reserved)