marshmallow test

[ mahrsh-mel-oh test, -mal-oh ]

noun

, Psychology.

1. an experiment in which self-control is assessed through whether the subject, usually a child, chooses to eat a presented treat, such as a marshmallow or cookie, for immediate gratification or chooses to wait in order to get an additional, promised treat.

Word History and Origins

Origin of marshmallow test¹

First recorded in 1965–70; developed by Austrian-born U.S. psychologist Walter Mischel (1930–2018) at Stanford University

Example Sentences

First conducted at Stanford in 1972, the marshmallow test is a famous experiment on self-control and the ability to delay gratification by planning ahead.

From Popular-Science

It’s also one that, even when the decision is made to invest against that small threat, means presenting a marshmallow test like the one above to customers and shareholders.

From Washington Post

In the marshmallow test, experimenters offer young children either one small reward right away, such as a marshmallow, or two small rewards if the kids wait 15 minutes.

From Science News For Students