The Story Of Delayed Gratification And The “Marshmallow Test”
November 10, 2014The story of delayed gratification and its impact on socially important outcomes is told by the psychologist Walter Mischel in his newly published book, The Marshmallow Test: Mastering Self-control. For over 40 years research has revealed self-control to be a reliable predictor of success as measured by higher SAT scores, reduced school drop out rates, better social and cognitive functioning, a healthier lifestyle and a greater sense of happiness. This book examines the complicated issues that underlie the power of self-control presented in a way that is accessible to both the general reader as well those versed in academia. In his book, Mischel describes how self-control is not fixed at birth, but is a set of skills that can be taught, mastered and applied to improve ones life.