The story of delayed gratification and its impact on socially important outcomes is told by the psychologist Walter Mischel in his newly published book, The Marshmallow Test: Mastering Self-control. For over 40 years research has revealed self-control to be a reliable predictor of success as measured by higher SAT scores, reduced school drop out rates, better social and cognitive functioning, a healthier lifestyle and a greater sense of happiness. This book examines the complicated issues that underlie the power of self-control presented in a way that is accessible to both the general reader as well those versed in academia. In his book, Mischel describes how self-control is not fixed at birth, but is a set of skills that can be taught, mastered and applied to improve ones life.<\/p>\n