Children Quote by Steven Pinker
““Most people, of course, are not so lacking in self-control that they ever lash out in violence. But among the nonviolent majority some people have more self-control than others. Aside from intelligence, no other trait augurs as well for a healthy and successful life.92 Walter Mischel began his studies of delay of gratification (in which he gave children the choice between one marshmallow now and two marshmallows later) in the late 1960s, and he followed the children as they grew up.93 When they were tested a decade later, the ones who had shown greater willpower in the marshmallow test had now turned into adolescents who were better adjusted, attained higher SAT scores, and stayed in school longer. When they were tested one and two decades after that, the patient children had grown into adults who were less likely to use cocaine, had higher self-esteem, had better relationships, were better at handling stress, had fewer symptoms of borderline personality disorder, obtained higher degrees, and earned more money. Other””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Better Angels of Our Nature by Steven Pinker, 2011
Self‑control predicts long‑term success across health, education, relationships, and earnings, more so than intelligence alone.
In simple terms: Willpower leads to better life outcomes.
Cultivate self‑discipline early.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- parenting
- education policy
- personal development
- health interventions
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies foster self‑control in children?
- What role does stress play in eroding willpower?
Self‑control can be influenced by environment and stress, limiting its predictive power.