Work

Effortless self-control

Year: 2024

Type: review

Abstract: Self-control is essential for outcomes in several life domains but is often seen as effortful. We discuss recent research indicating the possibility of effortless self-control. First, we discuss how high levels of self-control are associated with quicker self-control conflict identification and resolution. Second, we describe two pathways that may lead to these associations: (1) How automatization of behaviors plays a role in self-control outcomes. That is, self-control is associated with better, effortless habits. (2) We discuss that self-control conflicts can be anticipated and resolved with strategies that avoid effortful inhibition. Taken together, we aim to demonstrate that there is more to successful self-control than 'simply' working hard to resist your impulses - there may be easier roads to take.

Source: Current Opinion in Psychology

DOI: 10.1016/j.copsyc.2024.101860

Authors: Marleen Gillebaart, Iris K. Schneider

Institutions: Utrecht University, University of Cologne, Technische Universität Dresden

Language: English

Topic: Behavioral Health and Interventions

Subfield: Applied Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,970

OpenAlex ID: W4401424995

FWCI: 1.471

Cites: 55

Cited by: 24

Related to: 10