Is the Association of Procrastination and Age Mediated by Fear of Failure?

Abstract

AbstractProcrastination as an intentional delay of personal tasks in spite of anticipating negative consequences as a result is a widespread behavior, particularly among young adults. Previous research points to a reduction of procrastinatory tendencies across the adult lifespan; it is unclear to date which mechanisms underlie this decrease of procrastination behavior. Given evidence of fear of failure strongly influencing younger adults to postpone the start or delay of intended actions, as well as a possible decrease of fear of failure with increasing age, this study set out to explore a potential mediating effect of fear of failure on procrastination. A total of 197 participants, aged 18 to 90 years, took part in this study via online questionnaires. Statistical analyses showed that procrastination behavior decreased across the adult lifespan. Higher levels of fear of failure were linked to more procrastination behavior. A mediation analysis indicated that the relationship between age and procrastination was mediated by fear of failure. Results are discussed in terms of theoretical and practical implications.