Stand up Straight! Why?

Mothers and drill sergeants have a lot in common, not the least of which is their frequent insistence on correct posture. Standing up straight is better for our health, our social position, and now, according to researchers at Northwestern University, Illinois, our attitude towards ourselves (Article).

The scientists recruited 77 students to a study where they were randomly assigned to be managers or subordinates. But while waiting they were also asked to test new ergonomic chairs–either by sitting up straight or by slouching. In word association tests afterwards, those who sat in a constricted position had a noticeably diminished sense of personal power in comparison to those who sat up straight. Whether they had been assigned to be managers or subordinates did not seem to have much effect on self-esteem.

Of course, psychology is a very complex science, affected by so many factors that it is extremely difficult to assess the merit of an individual study. But, while others try and replicate the results, we should just say, “Thanks Mom! I owe you.”