Self-control

Self-control, also known as self-discipline, is the ability to regulate one's emotions, thoughts, and behavior in the face of temptations and impulses. As an executive function, self-control is a cognitive process that is necessary for regulating one's behavior in order to achieve specific goals.

A related concept in psychology is emotional self-regulation. Self-control is like a muscle. In the short term, overuse of self-control will lead to depletion. However, in the long term, the use of self-control can strengthen and improve over time.

Definition

The term self-control was first coined by the psychologist Roy Baumeister, and is sometimes referred to as self-regulation. Baumeister and his colleagues defined self-control as the capacity for altering one's own responses, especially to bring them into line with standards such as ideals, values, morals, and social expectations, and to support the pursuit of long-term goals.

Theories

Several theories of self-control have been proposed:

• The strength model of self-control posits that self-control is a limited resource that can be depleted.
• The process model of self-control posits that self-control involves attention and motivation.

Research

Research on self-control has increased significantly in the past few decades, with findings suggesting that self-control has wide-ranging implications for individual health and well-being.

See also

• Delayed gratification
• Ego depletion
• Impulse control
• Self-regulation theory (psychological)

External links

• American Psychological Association's page on self-control

Self-control Resources
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