Budden, Timothy ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5653-6651, Alister, Manikya, Ballard, Timothy, Milyavskaya, Marina and Ntoumanis, Nikos ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7122-3795 (2026) Modeling the dynamics of goal pursuit: a scoping review of computational approaches. Motivation and Emotion.

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Abstract

Computational modeling offers substantial promise for advancing goal pursuit theory by translating verbal psychological theories into more precise, testable mathematical formulations. However, the current integration of computational methods into goal pursuit research remains limited and fragmented, with no existing reviews synthesizing its applications. We conducted a systematic scoping review mapping computational models of goal pursuit, theoretical and methodological trends and identifying avenues for future research. We identified 23 peer-reviewed studies employing computational methods using empirical data. Studies developed models drawing on a diverse range of theories and cognitive architectures, including control theory (n = 14), social cognitive theory (n = 7), expectancy-value frameworks (n = 7), and adaptive control of thought—rational (n = 2). Models primarily aimed to understand performance (n = 9), goal prioritization (n = 9), motivation underlying goal selection (n = 3), and goal revision (n = 2). Methodologically, most studies used laboratory experiments (n = 18), though some incorporated longitudinal datasets from field studies (n = 6). Significant theoretical gaps exist regarding real-world goal pursuit, goal flexibility processes, and intersections between goal pursuit dynamics and mental health. Future research should focus on developing integrative computational frameworks capturing inherent dynamic and adaptive complexities of goal pursuit.

Item Type:	Article
Status:	Published
DOI:	10.1007/s11031-026-10273-y
School/Department:	School of Health Sciences
URI:	https://ray.yorksj.ac.uk/id/eprint/15787

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