A general theory of multiple-goal pursuit (2015–2017)
Abstract:
The aim of this project is to develop and test a formal theory that explains the mechanisms by which people
make choices amongst competing goals in a dynamic and uncertain environment ("multiple goal pursuit").
People have to manage competing goals in a wide range of settings (e.g., work, education, sport), yet the
mechanisms are poorly understood. Our theory integrates formal theories of self-regulation with formal
theories of decision making, to provide a more general account of multiple goal pursuit. We test the
predictions of the theory in a series of experiments in which people have to pursue two goals simultaneously.
The experiments allow us to test competing views, and understand the mechanisms involved.