Delay of Gratification among Black College Student Leaders

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to examine the existence of multidimensionality in delay of gratification for Black university student leaders. We investigated delay preference as it related to academic decisions, career choices, sociopolitical issues, and consumer preferences. Results supported such multidimensionality by yielding evidence for the heretofore unexamined sociopolitical dimension as well as an achievement-oriented delay dimension in this sample of Black students. Gender differences are also reported. Results indicated that similar factor structures emerged for both sexes. The importance of this approach to the study of delay is discussed as well as directions for future research.