Distance creates better self-control

This study looked at how children process stressful experiences. Researchers found that when children reflected from a more distanced perspective, they handled emotions more adaptively. Instead of getting swallowed by the feeling, they could observe the experience with more space. That distance helped reduce emotional overwhelm. This supports the power of reflective reframing, especially for young people learning self-control.

CATEGORY

Youth Development

OUTCOME AREA

Self-regulation

STUDY

Kross et al., 2011

CITATION

PubMed