This research explores how individuals in different stages of goal pursuit respond to various types of social support, with a particular focus on those experiencing action crisis, a motivational conflict about whether to persist or abandon a goal. Across two studies (N = 200), participants evaluated six types of support (evidentiary, value-focused, active listening, efficacy, instrumental, negative validation) in terms of perceived genuineness, self-verification, and emotional response. Study 1 presented hypothetical goal scenarios and scripted support messages, while Study 2 increased personal relevance by asking participants to reflect on a real goal and imagine support from a trusted close other. In both studies, support type significantly influenced participants' perceptions, with efficacy support consistently rated favorably across outcomes. Contrary to hypotheses, empathy-centered support types, especially negative validation, were not rated more positively during action crisis. Negative validation was rated lowest in Study 1 but received more moderate evaluations in Study 2, suggesting the tone and relational context of support delivery may influence its reception. Goal pursuit condition (implemental vs. action crisis) did not significantly moderate the effects of support type in most outcomes, though Study 2 revealed a significant interaction for self-verification, suggesting subtle interpretive differences based on motivational state. These findings highlight that while empathy may contribute to positive support experiences, confidence-boosting strategies like efficacy support may be equally or more effective, especially when delivered by someone the recipient trusts. The results underscore the importance of support tone, delivery context, and relationship closeness in shaping support effectiveness.
Zijing Chen (Sun,) studied this question.