Changes

Kray's research involved two groups of students prompted to reflect on turning points in their lives. The experimental group was asked to imagine that a key turning point had never occurred — to consider who they might have become, what values they might have held, and how their sense of self could have differed. The control group simply recounted the facts surrounding the same turning point. The results were counterintuitive: rather than producing a sense of chaos or arbitrariness, counterfactual reflection on life-defining moments caused participants to perceive their lives as more meaningful and coherent. Contemplating what might not have been, it seems, sharpens appreciation for what actually is.

Kray's research involved two groups of students prompted to reflect on turning points in their lives. The experimental group was asked to imagine that a key turning point had never occurred — to consider who they might have become, what values they might have held, and how their sense of self could have differed. The control group simply recounted the facts surrounding the same turning point. The results were counterintuitive: rather than producing a sense of chaos or arbitrariness, counterfactual reflection on life-defining moments caused participants to perceive their lives as more meaningful and coherent. Contemplating what might not have been, it seems, sharpens appreciation for what actually is.

 

'''Findings of research: The Power of Counterfactual Thinking - Kray, Tetlock et al. — Haas School of Business:'''

'''Findings of research: The Power of Counterfactual Thinking - Kray, Tetlock et al. — Haas School of Business:'''