The Relationship between Academic Achievement and Achievement Motivation among High School Students in Chennai District, Tamil Nadu, India

The present study examines the relationship between academic achievement and achievement motivation among high school students in Chennai District, Tamil Nadu. A survey method with correlational and comparative design was employed. The sample consisted of 300 students selected from government high schools. Data were collected using the Achievement Motivation Inventory and academic achievement scores obtained from school records. Statistical analyses included Pearson’s correlation and t-tests. The results revealed a significant positive relationship between academic achievement and achievement motivation (r = 0.38, p < 0.01). Significant differences were found in academic achievement based on parental education, employment status, income level, and residential locality, whereas achievement motivation differed significantly only with respect to parental education. The findings highlight the combined influence of motivational and parental socio-economic factors on students’ academic outcomes.