Wrosch, C., Scheier, M. F., Miller, G. E., Schulz, R., & Carver, C. S. (2003). Adaptive self-regulation of unattainable goals: Goal disengagement, goal re-engagement, and subjective well-being. Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin, 29, 1494-1508.
Three studies examined associations between goal disengagement, goal
re-engagement, and subjective well-being. In Study 1, 115
undergraduates reported on the extent to which they were able to
abandon unattainable goals and re-engage their efforts in alternative
goals. Study 2 examined the importance of goal disengagement and goal
re-engagement in groups of young adults and older adults (N = 120). In
Study 3, a sample of parents of children with cancer and parents of
healthy children was examined (N = 45). The findings confirmed that
goal disengagement and goal re-engagement can be associated with
ratings of high subjective well-being. In addition, the results showed
that goal disengagement and goal re-engagement can have interactive
effects on subjective well-being. The importance of the findings for
effective self-regulation and successful development are discussed.
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