ISSEP-2024-05
GRANT ID#: ISSEP-2024-05
GRANT TITLE: Setting the Scheme: Investigating the Effects of Experiencing Awe on Schema Malleability
GRANTEE: Arizona State University
PRIMARY INVESTIGATOR: Carley Vornlocher
CO-PRIMARY INVESTIGATOR: Jamie Katz
GRANT AMOUNT: USD $15,000.00
DURATION OF GRANT PROJECT: January 15, 2024 – May 15, 2025
Description of the Project
Executive summary:
Schemas—oversimplified mental models of who we and those around us are, and how we engage with the world—help us deal with the gravity and complexity of the human experience. While this can be adaptive, inflexible mental formations that are no longer accurate or helpful can undermine optimal functioning. Consequently, extensive research has sought to modulate schemas to promote physical and psychological well-being. The proposed project seeks to explore if awe—a known facilitator of cognitive change—may boost the effectiveness of attempts to alter schemas consequential for health and well-being. In Study 1, we ask whether priming personal experiences of awe will enhance the effects of a previously validated method of improving schemas of close others. In Study 2, we seek to replicate this effect, as well as demonstrate that the “boosting” effect of awe is enduring and has implications for downstream outcomes related to well-being.
Itemized budget:
The projected expenses are detailed below:
Our total cost will be $3,000, with all costs going towards participant incentives and Prolific service fees.
For S1, we will pay participants $2 in exchange for completing our 10-minute survey. With a total of $760 paid to 380 participants, as well as $240 in service fees, S1 will cost $1,000.
For S2, we will pay participants $7.50 in exchange for completing three ($2.50 per survey) 10-minute surveys over the course of one week. This higher rate will help ensure participant retention. With a total of $1500 paid to 190 participants, as well as $500 in service fees, S2 will cost $2,000 in total.
The total amount approved is USD $3,000.