How posture affects success and important decisions - study

A study by McGill University found that upright posture promotes more balanced decisions and boosts confidence. In an experiment with about 200 participants, those with straight backs more often achieved better results in a computer game and reported a positive emotional state. The findings were published in the British Journal of Psychology.

Researchers at McGill University conducted a study, the results of which were published in the British Journal of Psychology. About 200 people took part in the experiment, performing tasks on tablets. Participants were unaware that their workstations were arranged so that one group sat with a straight back, while the other sat in a slouched position. Afterwards, the volunteers played a computer game where they had to stop at the right time to maximize a monetary reward. Analysis showed that participants with upright posture more often made balanced decisions and achieved better results. They also more frequently reported feelings of confidence, pride, and a positive emotional state. Most volunteers did not notice the change in body position. The authors note that in previous studies, participants understood the purpose of the experiment, which could have influenced the results. In the new work, this factor was eliminated. The researchers believe that even small features of workplace organization can subtly influence emotions, confidence, and decision-making.