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Fostering transformative actions through the combined effect of the social motive of quixoteism and an abstract mindset.

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Title: Fostering transformative actions through the combined effect of the social motive of quixoteism and an abstract mindset.
Authors: Villar, Sergio (AUTHOR), Caballero, Amparo (AUTHOR), Carrera, Pilar (AUTHOR), Oceja, Luis (AUTHOR)
Source: Motivation & Emotion. Jun2026, Vol. 50 Issue 3, p444-454. 11p.
Subjects: Prosocial behavior, Abstract thought, Cognitive psychology, Altruism
Abstract: Quixoteism is a social motive that drives individuals to engage in challenging actions aimed at improving global welfare. Abstract mindset, in turn, promotes attention to core values and goals. Building on the priming process effect, we hypothesized that quixoteism would more strongly predict transformative behaviors—specifically, chivalrous decisions—under an abstract mindset. In Study 1 (N = 160), we examined whether the centrality of transcendental-change values predicted such decisions, and whether this effect was moderated by individuals' disposition toward abstract versus concrete thinking. In Study 2 (N = 197), we manipulated both values salience and construal level. Across both studies, quixoteism promoted transformative action only when participants adopted an abstract mindset. These findings underscore the importance of aligning motivational and cognitive processes to foster meaningful, prosocial engagement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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Database: Psychology and Behavioral Sciences Collection
Description
Abstract:Quixoteism is a social motive that drives individuals to engage in challenging actions aimed at improving global welfare. Abstract mindset, in turn, promotes attention to core values and goals. Building on the priming process effect, we hypothesized that quixoteism would more strongly predict transformative behaviors—specifically, chivalrous decisions—under an abstract mindset. In Study 1 (N = 160), we examined whether the centrality of transcendental-change values predicted such decisions, and whether this effect was moderated by individuals' disposition toward abstract versus concrete thinking. In Study 2 (N = 197), we manipulated both values salience and construal level. Across both studies, quixoteism promoted transformative action only when participants adopted an abstract mindset. These findings underscore the importance of aligning motivational and cognitive processes to foster meaningful, prosocial engagement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
ISSN:01467239
DOI:10.1007/s11031-025-10181-7