The Revision and Expansion of Self-Theory through Preparedness

The present paper examines the psychological pathways by which accumulating experiences of possible self-revision ultimately lead to revision of the core selves that define a broader personal narrative. In so doing, we expand the notion of naı̈ve ‘self-theories’ by identifying self-serving attributions and possible selves as critical components that extend or undermine the core self-theories of a unique personal narrative written (and revised) over a lifetime. Ultimately, we advance preparedness as the motivational force that drives the road from possible to core self-revision over time.