Anxiety and Future-Self Clarity: Can Future Thinking Influence Self-Esteem?
Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 2, 2025

Using the Threat Probability Task to Assess Anxiety and Fear During Uncertain and Certain Threat
Published on: September 12, 2014
Jessica Duffy1, Grace Salt1, Scott N Cole1
1School of Education, Language and Psychology, York St John University, York, UK.
Abstract:
Possible selves reflect one's hopes and fears for their future identity. Previous research shows that high anxiety is associated with clearer feared possible selves. However, the mechanism through which clarity could maintain anxiety is relatively unexplored as are questions concerning whether clarity of possible selves could offer new methods of reducing anxiety. The present article aimed to investigate if the relationship between clarity and anxiety is mediated by self-esteem. In addition, the present study aimed to explore the impact of the Best Possible Self-Technique on anxiety. In line with predictions, it was found that the relationship between the clarity of feared possible selves and anxiety was mediated by self-esteem. In addition, a preliminary exploration (using a repeated measures design) showed potential benefits for using a Best Possible Self-Technique in reducing anxiety. Overall, these findings provide insights into a potential mechanism through which the clarity of feared possible selves could influence anxiety, namely, through reducing self-esteem. Also, the findings open new avenues for future interventions designed to reduce anxiety through targeting the clarity of thoughts concerning future selves.
Related Concept Videos
Self-Evaluation: Self-Enhancement and Self-Verification
Erikson's Theory on Socioemotional Development during Adolescence
Self-Discrepancy Theory
Self-Schemas
Influence of Parents and Peers on Identity
Parental Influence on Identity Development
Parents serve as primary guides and managers in an adolescent's life, offering support instrumental in decision-making and personal growth....
The Sense of Self: Reflected Self-Appraisal and Social Comparison

