OIDA International Journal of Sustainable Development
Open-access peer-reviewed journal
https://doi.org/10.64211/190104
Beyond Delayed Gratification: Towards a Theory of Mental Conditioning for Sustainable Poverty Reduction
T.M.S.P.K. Thennakoon1 2, Rohana Ulluwishewa 3, Indujeeva K. Peiris 4 , U.H.Kaushalya 1 , Gayasha K. Paranamana 5
1Department of Geography, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka.
2 International Center for Multidisciplinary Studies (ICMS), Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka.
3 Independent Researcher and Writer in Spirituality and Sustainability; Former Honorary Research Associate, School of People, Environment and Planning, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand.
4 Department of Business and Economics, Open Polytechnic of New Zealand
5 NSBM Green University, Sri Lanka.
Volume 19, Issue 01, Pg. 61-80, 2026.
Abstract – The theory of delayed gratification is widely recognized for its explanatory power in predicting individual and societal success. It posits that the ability to defer immediate desires in favor of greater future rewards is crucial for achieving long-term goals. In the context of poverty reduction, this theory suggests that the ability of individuals living in poverty to delay immediate gratification is crucial for escaping poverty. Those who can delay gratification are more likely to break free from poverty, while those who cannot tend to remain trapped in it. This paper highlights the limitations of the delayed gratification theory in explaining why poverty reduction achieved through this approach often fails to reduce inequality and ensure sustainability. It seeks to move beyond the theory by presenting an alternative theoretical framework that better explains the persistence of poverty and the shortcomings of delayed gratification in addressing inequality and unsustainability. The study draws on three sources of data: (1) a comprehensive literature review, (2) introspective insights and non-judgmental observation of thoughts and emotions by the second and third authors, and (3) a field survey conducted in the Kobeigane GS Division of the Kurunegala District in Sri Lanka, involving interviews with 35 individuals from both wealthy and poor families. Our findings confirm that, as the theory suggests, individuals in poverty who possess the ability to delay gratification are more likely to escape it. However, their success often reinforces the very desires they once delayed. As a result, these reinforced desires, along with the associated aversions, sense of self, and self-centeredness, have diminished their capacity to act in harmony with themselves, others, and nature in ways that promote equality and sustainability. This limitation stems from the theory’s underlying materialistic paradigm, which implicitly assumes that desires are fixed and permanent traits of human nature. In contrast, our findings reveal that desires are not fixed and permanent but conditioned mental constructs that can be dissolved by freeing the mind from its conditioning. Based on this insight, the paper proposes an alternative theory of mental conditioning. This theory suggests that sustainable poverty reduction, along with reduced inequality and enhanced sustainability, depends not merely on delaying desires but on transcending them altogether. It argues that the perpetuation of poverty is driven not only by external material conditions but also by internal factors, namely, mental conditioning that constrains individuals’ capacity to escape poverty and foster equality and sustainability. While acknowledging the importance of addressing structural and external factors, the proposed theory emphasizes the transformative potential of freeing the mind from conditioning. A mind thus freed acts naturally and spontaneously for the well-being of the whole self, others, and nature. Such inner transformation, in both wealthy and poor individuals, leads to poverty and inequality reduction that is both effective and sustainable. Drawing on this theoretical framework, the paper outlines practical strategies for integrating mind-liberating practices into poverty reduction programs through local religious centers, educational institutions, and voluntary groups
Keywords: Beyond Gratification Theory, Mental Conditioning, Poverty Alleviation, Spirituality, Sustainability
Full-text paper download here
Presenter’s Bio
U.H. Kaushalya is a Research assistant in the Department of Geography and she has been awarded B.A. Hons Geography English Medium First Class Degree. She has won gold medal for her presentations.