Dixon, L. J., Hornsey, M. J., & Hartley, N. (2023). “The Secret” to Success? The Psychology of Belief in Manifestation. Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin, 0(0). https://doi.org/10.1177/01461672231181162
The Trouble With “Manifesting”: It may build confidence but real-world outcomes don’t change.
Highlights of the study -
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Manifesting, as a practice, is gaining traction in the personal development industry.
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The practice offers visions of effortless paths to untold riches via various forms of “energy” or “vibration” techniques ranging from repeating positive thoughts and wishes to symbolic acts such as writing blank checks to oneself.
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While manifestation is associated with upbeat expectations of and strong belief in oneself, leading to heightened expectations and feelings of self-enhancement, it is not associated with improved real-world outcomes.