Conferences

International Reversal Theory Conferences are held every two years.

22nd Reversal Theory Conference

July 35, 2024 at the University of Caen, in Normandie (France) (in person or remotely)

Conference Theme: “Challenging the myth of consistency

In today’s dynamic and multifaceted world, the prevailing myth of consistency in human behavior stands in stark contrast to our inherent emotional and motivational flexibility. Reversal theory posits a captivating perspective on the intricate nature of human behavior. It suggests that humans are more akin to dancers than statues, constantly in motion, and experiencing a kaleidoscope of emotions and motivations. Just as a dancer gracefully transitions between various movements and postures, humans, too, shift through different states of mind and motivation. This notion challenges the conventional belief that individuals are fixed in a single state of being, emphasizing instead the fluidity of our emotional and motivational landscapes. Join us in exploring the dynamic interplay of these ever-changing facets of human experience as we embark on a journey to delve into the multifaceted world of reversal theory.

The theme of “Challenging the Myth of Consistency” invites us to explore the flexible nature of individuals. By delving into the insights offered by reversal theory, we aim to question the largely accepted myth that humans are consistent, or fixed. Join us on this intellectual journey as we challenge the notion of uniformity and delve into the richness of our emotional and motivational diversity.

We encourage your proposals to explore these ideas. Speakers may present completed papers, provide updates about ongoing research, or discuss practical uses of the theory. Updates on research ideas introduced at the 2023 (July & September) virtual conferences are especially welcome. Participants may also submit papers that introduce ideas or ask questions that are “works in progress.” One of the benefits of this conference is the opportunity to tap into the expertise and experience of the vibrant and diverse community that makes up the Reversal Theory Society.

Submission deadline: January 28th, 2024. 

Two formats are proposed this year:

1) Oral communication: 20-minute presentation followed by 10 minutes of discussion.

2) Symposium: 1 hour presentation (2 presentations of 30 minutes or 3 presentations of 20 minutes) followed by 30 minutes of discussion. Please indicate clearly the theme of the proposed symposium in you submission.

Abstracts should be 250 to 500 words and may be in English and/or French. You can add an attachment file for further information (bibliography, details of symposium presentations, etc.).

Submit abstracts on https://reversal-theory.sciencesconf.org (“new submission” tab after creating an account). For questions, please contact us at: [email protected]

International, Interactive Discussion Group: 2023

The Reversal Theory Society held an international interactive discussion group in July/September 2023. Contact: [email protected].

21st – June 27-29, 2022

Focus: Flexibility, Emotion Regulation, the Change Process, and Reversal Theory

20th – June 29 – July 1, 2021 – Virtual

19th – 10-12 July 2019 – Las Vegas, New Mexico, USA

18th – 12-14 July 2017 – Swansea University, Wales, United Kingdom
17th – 29 June – 3 July 2015 – Niagara College, Ontario, Canada
16th – 16-19 July 2013 – Reims, France
15th – 5-8 July 2011 – Alexandria, Virginia, USA
14th – 8-11 July 2009 – New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
13th – 1-5 July 2007 – Gregynog, Wales, UK
12th – 4-7 July 2005 – Winnipeg, Canada
11th – 7-11 July 2003 – York St. John College – York, England
10th – 2001 – Hobart, Tasmania (Australia)
9th – 1999 – Windsor, Canada
8th – 1997 – East London – England
7th – 1995 – Melbourne, Australia
Older Conferences

Photos from previous conferences

6th – 1993 – University of Bergen – Ullensvang, Norway

5th – 1991 – Midwest Research Institute – Kansas, US (Conference Photo)

4th – 1989 – Athabasca University – Alberta, Canada

3rd – 1987 – Nijenrode Campus, Netherlands School of Business (Conference Photo)

2nd – 1985 – York University – Toronto, Canada (Conference Photo)

1st – 1983 – Gregynog Hall in Wales