Aging and Self-Discrepancy: Evidence for Adaptive Change Across the Life Span

Abstract

Background/Study Context: Higgins’ self-discrepancy theory (SDT; Higgins, 1987, Psychological Review, 94, 319–340) postulates that individuals are motivated to decrease the discrepancy between their current and future selves. The objective of the current research was to investigate adult age differences in quantitative and qualitative aspects of self-discrepancy.

Methods: Higgins’ self-guide strength measure (Higgins et al., 1997, Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 72, 515–525) was utilized to compare self-discrepancy in older (aged 65–84) and younger (aged 17–30) healthy, community-dwelling adults. Additionally, the possible selves generated in the task were analyzed thematically.

Results: Age was associated with lowered expectations concerning both current and future selves, but the magnitude of self-discrepancy remained constant across the life span. Thematically, interpersonal-related possible selves were important for both age groups, whereas significant age differences emerged in several other thematic domains: younger adults generated significantly more related to achievement, whereas older adults were significantly more concerned with duties, obligations, and health.

Discussion: These findings reflect adaptive age-related changes in expectations and motivational priorities in line with life span theories of development.

Additional information

Funding

This study was supported by a Discovery Grant from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC; 358797-2013 to J.S.).