Research paper
Polivy J, Herman CP. The false-hope syndrome: unfulfilled expectations of self-change. Current Directions in Psychological Science. 2000 Dec;9(6):128-131. doi:10.1111/1467-8721.00076.
Why we cite it
Introduces the “false-hope syndrome” — a framework explaining why people repeatedly attempt self-change (especially dieting) despite consistent past failure. Shows that the problem lies in unrealistic expectations about the speed, ease, and extent of change, not in the person’s character or willpower. The initial commitment itself provides immediate psychological rewards (self-image improvement), which reinforce the cycle regardless of eventual outcome. Directly relevant to the project’s emphasis on realistic expectations and understanding why the restart-and-fail cycle persists.