Anxiety and Future-Self Clarity: Can Future Thinking Influence Self-Esteem?

Abstract

Possible selves reflect one's hopes and fears for their future identity. Previous research shows that high anxiety is associated with clearer feared possible selves. However, the mechanism through which clarity could maintain anxiety is relatively unexplored as are questions concerning whether clarity of possible selves could offer new methods of reducing anxiety. The present article aimed to investigate if the relationship between clarity and anxiety is mediated by self-esteem. In addition, the present study aimed to explore the impact of the Best Possible Self-Technique on anxiety. In line with predictions, it was found that the relationship between the clarity of feared possible selves and anxiety was mediated by self-esteem. In addition, a preliminary exploration (using a repeated measures design) showed potential benefits for using a Best Possible Self-Technique in reducing anxiety. Overall, these findings provide insights into a potential mechanism through which the clarity of feared possible selves could influence anxiety, namely, through reducing self-esteem. Also, the findings open new avenues for future interventions designed to reduce anxiety through targeting the clarity of thoughts concerning future selves.