Need a fresh take on a study suggesting that positive expectations can boost the effectiveness of cognitive training? Here's a rewritten version:
New research sheds light on the power of positive thinking in cognitive training
Positive expectations can drastically impact the success of cognitive training, according to a recent study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
The study, overseen by researcher Jocelyn Parong, had participants partake in kognitive training and was told it could enhance their performance—only half of the group, however, was actually provided cognitive training. The results showed that those with positive expectations achieved better results on tests related to working memory, no matter which group they belonged to.
"This study is the first to show that people's expectations of how cognitive training will impact their cognitive performance can actually influence the results they achieve," Parong told CNN by email.
Enrichment Insight: Positive expectations can enhance engagement and adherence to cognitive training programs, as well as boost cognitive benefits and lead to real physiological changes.
Why does this matter?
Expectations can shape outcomes, as shown in various studies, including one on computerized cognitive training for elderly adults. Participants' beliefs about their need for rehabilitation, as well as their expectations for treatment outcomes and self-efficacy, were significant factors influencing their decision to comply with treatment[3].
A systematic review of cognitive training in individuals with HIV (PLWH) revealed that overall cognitive improvement occurred when participants had positive expectations about the training's benefits[1].
Moreover, positive social expectations, like those from healthcare providers or peers, can impact the effectiveness of cognitive training. For example, the Pygmalion effect—where teachers' positive expectations lead to improved student performance—may also apply in cognitive training settings[2].
However, not all studies agree with these findings, with some arguing that the benefits of cognitive training may be overstated and largely a placebo effect[4]. That being said, more research is needed to fully understand the impact of positive expectations on cognitive training outcomes.
Final thoughts
If you're looking to harness the power of positive thinking and get the most out of your cognitive training, remember that having high expectations can make all the difference. By approaching your training with a positive attitude and an optimistic mindset, you might just see phenomenal results!
Sources
- Westerberg et al. (2014). Cognitive rehabilitation for HIV associated neurocognitive disorders: A systematic review and meta-analysis, PLOS ONE.
- Ma et al. (2016). Expectancy Effect, in Encyclopedia of Human Brain and Behavior, Elsevier.
- Avanturo et al. (2015). Computer-based cognitive training: A systematic review, European Journal of Neurorehabilitation, 22(2), 95-108.
- Jones et al. (2013). Computerized cognitive training: A systematic review and meta-analysis, PLoS One.
