Work

Adaptive Self-Regulation of Unattainable Goals: Goal Disengagement, Goal Reengagement, and Subjective Well-Being

Year: 2003

Type: article

Abstract: Three studies examined associations between goal disengagement, goal reengagement, and subjective well-being. In Study 1, 115 undergraduates reported on the extent to which they were able to abandon unattainable goals and reengage their efforts in alternative goals. Study 2 examined the importance of goal disengagement and goal reengagement in groups of young adults and older adults (N = 120). In Study 3, a sample of parents of children with cancer and parents of medically healthy children was examined (N = 45). The findings confirmed that goal disengagement and goal reengagement can be associated with ratings of high subjective well-being. In addition, the results showed that goal disengagement and goal reengagement can have interactive effects on subjective well-being. The importance of the findings for effective self-regulation and successful development are discussed.

Source: Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin

DOI: 10.1177/0146167203256921

Authors: Carsten Wrosch, Michael F. Scheier, Gregory E. Miller, Richard Schulz, Charles S. Carver

Institutions: Concordia University, Carnegie Mellon University, University of British Columbia, University of Pittsburgh, University of Miami

Language: English

Topic: Psychological Well-being and Life Satisfaction

Subfield: Social Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: green

Funders: National Institute on Aging, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institute of Mental Health, National Cancer Institute