What does the "Marshmallow Test" measure in preschoolers?

The Marshmallow Test is a well-known psychological experiment designed to measure delayed gratification in preschoolers. In the classic setup, a child is given a choice between eating a marshmallow immediately or waiting for a period of time to receive a second marshmallow as a reward for their patience. The ability to delay gratification is significant because it has been linked to various positive life outcomes, such as better academic performance, improved social skills, and greater success in life overall.

This test examines a child's impulse control and self-regulation abilities, highlighting how well they can manage immediate desires in favor of long-term benefits. It emphasizes the importance of self-control in early development, crucial for fostering resilience and goal-setting in children as they grow.

While abilities such as following directions, social interaction skills, and creative thinking are important aspects of child development, they do not specifically relate to or capture the essence of the Marshmallow Test as it focuses primarily on an individual’s capacity to wait for a greater reward.