Awe motivates authentic-self pursuit via self-transcendence: Implications for prosociality

Abstract

We propose that the emotion of awe (i.e., challenge that exceeds the scope of one’s mental structures, requiring cognitive accommodation) awakens self-transcendence (i.e., reaching beyond one’s self-boundary), which in turn invigorates pursuit of the authentic self (i.e., alignment with one’s true self). This process has implications for prosociality. We supported our theoretical model in 14 studies (N = 4438) using distinct awe manipulations or measures, employing different assessments of authentic-self pursuit, testing participants both in laboratory and field settings, and involving samples from both collectivistic and individualistic cultures. In Studies 1-2 (N = 828), dispositional awe was positively associated with authentic self-pursuit, and induced awe motivated authentic-self pursuit. In Studies 2-9 (N = 2461), dispositional awe was positively associated with, and induced awe strengthened, authentic-self pursuit via self-transcendence. These effects were independent of pride and happiness. In Study 10 (N = 281), self-smallness (i.e., a sense of self as small and insignificant), albeit induced by awe, did not account for the unique effects of awe on authentic self-pursuit via self-transcendence. Finally, in Studies 11-14 (N = 868), awe-induced authentic self-pursuit was linked with higher general prosociality, but lower inauthentic prosociality. The findings invite a re-examination of awe’s relation with the self, while highlighting the complexity and intricacy of that relation.

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ORCID for Constantine Sedikides: orcid.org/0000-0003-4036-889X

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