miswanting

Definition

The psychological phenomenon where individuals misjudge what will make them happy in the future, leading them to pursue goals that do not actually increase their long-term well-being.

Etymology

The word is a modern psychological term coined by researchers Daniel Gilbert and George Loewenstein, formed by combining the prefix 'mis-' (meaning wrongly) with 'wanting' (the act of desiring something).

In the news

The article uses miswanting to explain why people prioritize material gains like a larger home, even if the necessary long commute significantly reduces their daily happiness.

Psychology says people who travel long distances every day for work aren't always making the best choice:

The Economic Times

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