State investigative interest varies across daily life and predicts academic engagement: Replication and extension of the nomological network

Abstract

Recent contributions propose to integrate a state perspective into the conceptualization of vocational interests. Such integration addresses in-the-moment expressions of interests and allows to track relations to distal outcomes of vocational interests more closely. To further the trait-state integration of vocational interests, insights into the nomological network of state vocational interests are necessary. In this preregistered experience sampling study of 217 university students, we studied state investigative interest in daily life and the relations with theory-derived person- and situation-related constructs. Results from 5631 observations across 3.5 weeks showed that specific situation characteristics, openness, happiness, and current social student role were associated with state investigative interest. Furthermore, person-aggregated state investigative interest and the reactivity of investigative interest in situations related with their academic studies predicted individuals’ overall academic engagement in some cases. Generally, the relations in the nomological network were stronger when state investigative interest and hypothesized constructs were more closely aligned. Overall, the results underline the systematic nature and psychological relevance of state vocational interests. We discuss how integrating a state perspective into research on vocational interests implies novel approaches for capitalizing on the power of vocational interests.