Our Mission

The Self and Social Motivation Laboratory at OSU explores the consequences of interpersonal goals for learning, self-regulation, relationships, and mental and physical health. Our research aims to understand

• how people inadvertently create what they don’t want in their lives when they are driven by the ego or self-esteem concerns
• how shifting to a different framework focused on what they want to create, contribute, or learn can help people create what they and others want

Ultimately, we hope to use rigorous scientific methods to provide conceptual and practical tools that can help people clarify and accomplish their most inspired and inspiring goals, in a sustainable way that is good for others as well as the self. In doing so, we hope to help people become more healthy, constructive, and effective human beings, connected to their inner resources, to other people, and to their passion.