Title: Can People Change? A Look at What's Realistic
Headings: People Can Change, But That Doesn't Mean They Will
People Can Change, But That Doesn't Mean They Will
First, a few things to keep in mind
You can’t force change
Change takes time and effort
Change doesn’t always follow a linear path
What can change
What about people who cheat or lie?
What (usually) can’t change
Core personality traits
Emotions
Mental health conditions
How change happens
Motivation
Visualization
Positive feedback and support
Effort (not ability)
Therapy
The bottom line

Content: Can People Change? A Look at What's Realistic
People Can Change, But That Doesn't Mean They Will
Medically reviewed by Timothy J. Legg, Ph.D., CRNP — Written by Crystal Raypole on July 31, 2020
Considerations
What can change
What can't change
How it happens
Takeaway
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Most people agree: Everyone makes mistakes. You might use this phrase to console a loved one who’s done something they regret or boost self-compassion when you mess up yourself. Perhaps you add the reassurance, “You’ll do better next time,” or vow to use your experience to improve in the future. These common sayings imply people can change — and they absolutely can. Anyone can make an effort to alter specific habits or behaviors. Even some aspects of attitude and personality can change over time… with some dedicated effort. Yet while people can change, not everyone does. How can you tell if someone will ever really address certain behaviors?