Do high expectations lead to better results?
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Do High Expectations Lead to Better Results?
High Expectations in Negotiations
Research indicates that high expectations can significantly influence negotiation outcomes. A study on negotiation practices found that negotiators with higher aspirations generally achieved better results compared to those with lower expectations. However, when both parties had equally high expectations, the outcome did not necessarily favor the one with the highest aspirations. The study also highlighted that maximum aspiration levels had a more substantial impact on positive outcomes than fallback positions.
Expectations in Medical Outcomes
In the medical field, the role of expectations is complex. A study on lumbar decompression surgery patients revealed that overly optimistic expectations did not correlate with better outcomes. Instead, the fulfillment of expectations was the most significant predictor of patient satisfaction. Similarly, research on hip and knee arthroplasty patients showed that while high expectations were linked to better objective outcomes (e.g., pain reduction and improved function), these expectations were often not fully met, leading to lower subjective satisfaction.
Educational Context: Teacher and Student Expectations
Teacher expectations have a profound impact on student performance. A meta-analysis of 261 studies found a moderate positive association between students' expected and actual academic achievements, suggesting that high expectations can indeed lead to better results. Additionally, an intervention study demonstrated that students taught by teachers trained to adopt high-expectation practices showed significant improvement in mathematics achievement over one year. This aligns with earlier findings that high teacher expectations are a key characteristic of more effective schools.
Psychological and Cognitive Effects of High Expectations
High expectations can also affect psychological and cognitive aspects. For instance, a study on students receiving high-expectation comments found that these students exhibited increased mental activity and confidence, although this did not directly translate to higher test scores. In psychotherapy, a meta-analysis showed that patients with optimistic outcome expectations experienced better post-treatment improvements, partly mediated by the quality of the therapeutic alliance .
Managerial Implications
In organizational settings, establishing high expectations is crucial for achieving productivity potential. A classic management study emphasized that setting specific, measurable goals and holding individuals accountable can transform expectations into tangible results. This approach requires persistent effort and strategic planning from top management to overcome resistance and foster a results-oriented environment.
Conclusion
Overall, high expectations can lead to better results across various domains, including negotiations, medical outcomes, education, and organizational performance. However, the fulfillment of these expectations and the quality of the processes involved play critical roles in determining the ultimate success. Therefore, while high expectations are beneficial, they must be managed realistically and supported by effective strategies to maximize positive outcomes.
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