Can my life get better? Examining lay theories for life satisfaction among younger and older adults

Abstract

ABSTRACT Two studies examined younger and older adults’ lay theories for life satisfaction (LS). In a correlational study (Study 1, N = 744; 356 younger adults: M age = 30.11 years, 46% male; 388 older adults: M age = 65.17 years, 32% male), more incremental (vs. entity) lay theories for LS were strongly related to perceptions concerning the possibility of improving one’s LS (more so than worsening). In a preregistered experiment (Study 2, N = 750; 428 younger adults: M age = 30.07 years, 43% male; 322 older adults: M age = 65.04 years, 32% male), a lay theories manipulation (incremental, entity, or control) impacted the perceived possibility of improving and worsening one’s LS. In both studies incremental (vs. entity) lay theories were positively linked with psychological adjustment and goal striving, as were perceptions concerning the possibility of improving (vs. worsening) one’s LS. Findings support the value of an incremental mindset, regardless of age.