Theoretical integration and future lines of flow research

Abstract

The final chapter provides a short summary of all chapters of the book and points to similarities between the chapters and what these imply for future research. Future research topics that are discussed include the core components of flow, the differentiation of frequency and intensity of flow, and the duration of and dynamics within and between flow episodes. We further look at antecedents of flow beyond the demand skill balance and at the role of intrinsic and extrinsic reasons for the emergence of flow. For the development of autotelic personality, it is proposed that we can apply existing evidence regarding personality factors related to flow. Further, the chapter addresses a potential agreement regarding the measurement of flow using a combination of the Flow Questionnaire and the Componential approach to assess flow as a yes-or-no continuous phenomenon. We discuss the Experience Sampling Method (ESM) and provide ideas on how to make use of the full potential of ESM data. Finally, some speculation about consequences of flow, and the application of flow interventions, are addressed. The chapter ends with a personal view on the role of flow in development.