Self-defining future projections: exploring the identity function of thinking about the future

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Cognitive Science
• Social Psychology

Background:

• The role of self-defining memories (SDMs) in establishing self and identity is well-documented.
• The contribution of anticipated future events to self-identity has been less explored.

Purpose of the Study:

• Introduce the construct of self-defining future projection (SDFP).
• Investigate the role of SDFP in grounding the self and its relation to SDMs.
• Examine the connection between SDFP, personal continuity, and self-esteem.

Main Methods:

• Two studies were conducted to explore SDFP.
• Participants identified significant future events they frequently considered.
• Analysis explored the relationship between SDM construction styles and SDFP.

Main Results:

• People readily identify significant future events that define their identity.
• The style of constructing SDMs is mirrored in SDFPs, indicating both ground the self.
• A greater tendency to derive meaning from past experiences correlates with increased reflection on future event implications.
• Both SDMs and SDFPs enhance feelings of personal continuity and are linked to self-esteem.

Conclusions:

• Self-defining future projection (SDFP) is a valid construct contributing to self and identity.
• Anticipating future events, like recalling past memories, helps ground the self.
• Self-identity is partly sustained by envisioning significant future events.