Psychological Distancing: Why Happiness Helps You See the Big Picture
11 Pages Posted: 1 Jul 2012
Date Written: 2009
Abstract
We propose that a positive mood, by signaling that a situation is benign, might allow people to step back and take in the big picture. As a consequence, a positive mood might increase abstract construal and the adoption of abstract, future goals. In contrast, a negative mood, by signaling not only danger but also its imminence, might focus attention on immediate and proximal concerns and reduce the adoption of abstract, future goals.
Suggested Citation: Suggested Citation
Labroo, Aparna A. and Patrick, Vanessa, Psychological Distancing: Why Happiness Helps You See the Big Picture (2009). Journal of Consumer Research, Vol. 35, No. 5, 2009, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=2086815
Do you have negative results from your research you’d like to share?
Feedback
Feedback to SSRN
If you need immediate assistance, call 877-SSRNHelp (877 777 6435) in the United States, or +1 212 448 2500 outside of the United States, 8:30AM to 6:00PM U.S. Eastern, Monday - Friday.