Possible health selves of older African Americans: Toward increasing the effectiveness of health promotion efforts

Possible selves are cognitive representations of the self in the future that motivate planning and behavior. This study explored possible health selves among rural-dwelling African Americans. Older African American respondents; described their hoped-for and feared selves, as well as activities they initiated to achieve or avoid these selves. Three categories of possible selves emerged: health, social, and spiritual. The findings provide a basis for the development of culturally relevant health intervention programs.