Perceived control over development and subjective well-being: differential benefits across adulthood.

Lang F, Heckhausen J (2001)


Publication Status: Published

Publication Type: Journal article, Original article

Publication year: 2001

Journal

Publisher: American Psychological Association

Book Volume: 81

Pages Range: 509-23

Volume: 81

Issue: 3

Journal Issue: 3

Abstract

The relationship between perceived control over development (PCD) and subjective well-being (SWB) across adulthood was examined in 3 studies. In Study 1, with 480 adults aged between 20 and 90 years, PCD was closely related to SWB. Chronological age moderated the associations between PCD and SWB beyond individual differences in health, intelligence, social support, and socioeconomic status. In the longitudinal Study 2, with 42 older adults, strong PCD was associated with increased positive affect only when desirable events had occurred previously. In Study 3, older adults experienced greater satisfaction when attributing attainment of developmental goals to their ability, whereas younger adults were more satisfied when attributing such successes to their own efforts. Findings point to adaptive adjustments of control perceptions to age-related actual control potentials across adulthood.

Authors with CRIS profile

How to cite

APA:

Lang, F., & Heckhausen, J. (2001). Perceived control over development and subjective well-being: differential benefits across adulthood. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 81(3), 509-23.

MLA:

Lang, Frieder, and Jutta Heckhausen. "Perceived control over development and subjective well-being: differential benefits across adulthood." Journal of Personality and Social Psychology 81.3 (2001): 509-23.

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