The power of delayed gratification: Lessons From the Marshmallow test
The marshmallow test is a famous psychological experiment that measures a child's ability to delay gratification. Here's how it works and what it reveals, along with some contemporary life scenario examples:
The Marshmallow Test: A Measure of Self-Control
In the test, a child is offered a choice between receiving one small reward immediately or a larger reward if they can wait for a short period. The original study, conducted by Walter Mischel at Stanford University, found that children who could delay gratification tended to have better outcomes in later life.
How the Test Works
1. A child is presented with a treat, often a marshmallow.
2. They're told they can eat it right away or wait for a short period (usually around 15 minutes) to receive a second treat.
3. The researcher leaves the room, and the child is observed to see how long they wait before eating the first marshmallow.
What the Test Reveals
The marshmallow test assesses a child's self-control and ability to delay gratification. Research has shown that children who waited longer for the second marshmallow tended to have:
- Higher SAT scores
- Better social and cognitive functioning
- Lower body mass index
Contemporary Life Scenario Examples
1. Saving for a Dream Phone: Imagine a teenager wants a new smartphone that costs Rs 60,000. They have two options: buy using EMI the Rs 60,000 phone right away or buy a cheaper phone now for Rs15,000 wait for 6 months to save up for the dream phone. If they can delay gratification and save up, they'll get the phone they really want, now for a far lesser price and no EMI !
Similar ideas can be adopted for buying a car or a house.
Tip: For a house if the EMI matches the rent then one can buy a house. This is a rational decision and not an emotional decision!
2. Investing in Education: A young adult wants to pursue a master's degree, which will increase their earning potential in the long run. They can choose to take a job immediately and earn a steady income or invest time and money in their education.
If they delay gratification and focus on their education, they'll likely reap greater rewards in the future.
These examples illustrate the concept of delayed gratification and its potential impact on future success. By resisting immediate temptations and focusing on long-term goals, individuals can achieve greater rewards and improve their overall well-being.