In 'The Marshmallow Test,' psychologist Walter Mischel explores the intriguing concept of self-control and its profound implications on our lives. Through a series of groundbreaking experiments with children and the iconic marshmallow, he reveals the surprising power of delayed gratification. Mischel delves into the psychological mechanisms behind willpower and how they shape our future successes and behaviors. This fascinating journey into the mind challenges our understanding of temptation and discipline. Can mastering the art of waiting truly be the key to a happier, more successful life?
By Walter Mischel
Published: 2014
"The ability to delay gratification is a key to achieving long-term goals and happiness."
Renowned psychologist Walter Mischel, designer of the famous Marshmallow Test, explains what self-control is and how to master it. A child is presented with a marshmallow and given a choice: Eat this one now, or wait and enjoy two later. What will she do? And what are the implications for her behavior later in life? The world's leading expert on self-control, Walter Mischel has proven that the ability to delay gratification is critical for a successful life, predicting higher SAT scores, better social and cognitive functioning, a healthier lifestyle and a greater sense of self-worth. But is willpower prewired, or can it be taught? In The Marshmallow Test, Mischel explains how self-control can be mastered and applied to challenges in everyday life--from weight control to quitting smoking, overcoming heartbreak, making major decisions, and planning for retirement. With profound implications for the choices we make in parenting, education, public policy and self-care, The Marshmallow Test will change the way you think about who we are and what we can be.
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“The ability to delay gratification is a key to achieving long-term goals and happiness.”
The Marshmallow Test
By Walter Mischel
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Walter Mischel (1930-2018) was a renowned psychologist and author best known for his groundbreaking research on self-control and the psychological mechanisms underlying it. His most notable work, 'The Marshmallow Test,' explores the significance of delaying gratification in achieving long-term success and well-being. Mischel's writing style is characterized by its accessibility and engaging narrative, effectively bridging the gap between complex psychological theories and practical applications. Throughout his career, he influenced both academic and popular discourse on personality and behavior, profoundly impacting fields such as psychology, education, and parenting.
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