Self-control in life. (Success on Mischel’s “marshmallow test” is linked to many life successes in adulthood. What are some of these areas of success? Why is greater self-control and delayed gratification linked to these successes? How can this information be applied to training children for later life functioning and success?)
Success on Mischel's "marshmallow test" (the ability to delay gratification) is strongly linked to numerous positive life outcomes in adulthood. This connection arises because delayed gratification underpins various critical skills for long-term achievement. This information can be effectively applied to training children to enhance their future functioning and success.
Longitudinal studies following participants of Mischel's marshmallow test into adulthood have revealed correlations with success in several key domains:
Academic Achievement: Children who demonstrated greater self-control tended to have higher SAT scores, better academic grades, and higher levels of educational attainment. They showed better ability to concentrate and persist in problem-solving.
Cognitive and Executive Functioning: These individuals often exhibited better cognitive control, improved attention regulation, and stronger executive function skills (like planning, working memory, and inhibitory control).