Functional or Fantasy? Examining the Implications of Subjective Temporal Perspective “Trajectories” for Life Satisfaction

In a 5-year longitudinal study of young community adults, the authors examined subjective temporal perspective (STP) “trajectories” derived from ratings of past, present, and anticipated future life satisfaction (LS) collected at two time points. Upward STP trajectories (past < present < futur...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Personality & social psychology bulletin 2009-03, Vol.35 (3), p.295-308
Main Authors: Busseri, Michael A., Choma, Becky L., Sadava, Stan W.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Adaptation, Psychological
Adult
Attitude
Bias
Discontent
Fantasy
Female
Functioning
Humans
Individual differences
Individuality
Life satisfaction
Longitudinal Studies
Male
Models, Psychological
Personal Satisfaction
Psychological distress
Quality of Life
Self Concept
Selfenhancement
Social functioning
Surveys and Questionnaires
Thinking
Time
Time Factors
Young Adult
Young adults
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Summary:In a 5-year longitudinal study of young community adults, the authors examined subjective temporal perspective (STP) “trajectories” derived from ratings of past, present, and anticipated future life satisfaction (LS) collected at two time points. Upward STP trajectories (past < present < future LS) were normative at both time points. Opposing hypotheses were derived from the literature concerning the potential positive versus negative implications of upward STP trajectories. Using latent trajectory modeling, individual differences in STP trajectories were examined in relation to mental, physical, and interpersonal functioning as well as future satisfaction bias (over- vs. underestimation of future LS). Steeper upward STP trajectories were associated with less positive functioning, both concurrently and prospectively, as well as greater future satisfaction bias. Therefore, rather than representing a realistic, adaptive form of self-enhancement, steep upward STP trajectories for LS appeared to be a form of fantasizing and wishful thinking, associated with distress, dissatisfaction, and dysfunction.
ISSN:0146-1672
1552-7433
DOI:10.1177/0146167208327215