Future orientation in the self-system: possible selves, self-regulation, and behavior.

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Social Psychology
• Self-Regulation Theory

Background:

• Possible selves are future self-representations that theoretically influence motivation and behavior.
• Previous research suggested a direct link between possible selves and actions.
• A need exists to integrate possible selves within broader self-regulatory frameworks.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose and test an alternative conceptualization of possible selves as integral to self-regulatory processes.
• To demonstrate how embedding possible selves within self-regulation models enhances predictive power.
• To investigate the role of possible selves in both control-process and interpersonal self-regulation.

Main Methods:

• Two studies were conducted to test predictions derived from self-regulation models incorporating possible selves.
• Study 1 utilized a control-process model to examine the influence of possible selves on current behavior.
• Study 2 employed an interpersonal self-regulation model to analyze freely generated hoped-for and feared selves.

Main Results:

• Viewing possible selves as behavioral standards within a control-process model supported predictions regarding their influence on current behavior.
• Analysis within an interpersonal self-regulation model revealed significant concern for relational value in hoped-for and feared selves.
• Findings indicate that possible selves function as a component within, rather than a direct driver of, motivation and behavior.

Conclusions:

• The role of possible selves in motivation and behavior is best understood within fully specified self-regulation models.
• Integrating future-oriented self-representations (possible selves) enriches existing self-regulation theories.
• Further research should focus on strengthening the integration of possible selves and self-regulation processes.