Pathways from adversity to wisdom
Folk beliefs and philosophers have long suggested that mastering adversity contributes to growth in wisdom –adaptability to the situation, perspectivism, dialectical thinking, and epistemic humility. But existing research on outcomes of adversity suggests a puzzle. On the one hand, cross-sectional studies have found adversity leads to post-traumatic growth in personal strengths such as wisdom. On the other hand, focus on adverse experiences exacerbates negative emotions and thoughts and undermines health and well-being over time. Our chapter highlights the idea that outcomes of adversity may depend on one’s mindset when reflecting on the adverse experience. Adopting a self-distanced mindset rather than the habitual self-focused or self-immersed mindset is likely to enhance wise characteristics. We review evidence-based advances in the study of daily adversity and wisdom, specifically focusing on utilizing longitudinal and experimental methodologies, and address future questions and clinical implications of self-distanced mindsets for growth in wisdom.