Temporal self-regulation theory: a neurobiologically informed model for physical activity behavior

Abstract

Dominant explanatory models for physical activity behavior are limited by the exclusion of several important components, including temporal dynamics, ecological forces, and neurobiological factors. The latter may be a critical omission, given the relevance of several aspects of cognitive function for the self-regulatory processes that are likely required for consistent implementation of physical activity behavior in everyday life. This narrative review introduces temporal self-regulation theory (TST; Hall and Fong, 2007, 2013) as a new explanatory model for physical activity behavior. Important features of the model include consideration of the default status of the physical activity behavior, as well as the disproportionate influence of temporally proximal behavioral contingencies. Most importantly, the TST model proposes positive feedback loops linking executive function (EF) and the performance of physical activity behavior. Specifically, those with relatively stronger executive control (and optimized brain structures supporting it, such as the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (PFC)) are able to implement physical activity with more consistency than others, which in turn serves to strengthen the executive control network itself. The TST model has the potential to explain everyday variants of incidental physical activity, sport-related excellence via capacity for deliberate practice, and variability in the propensity to schedule and implement exercise routines.

Keywords: behavior; brain; executive function; exercise; theoretical neuroscience.

Figure 1

Timeline of behavioral contingencies for physical activity behavior.

Figure 2

Temporal self-regulation theory for physical activity (TST-PA). Note: PA = physical activity. Solid arrows indicate major causal pathways; dotted lines represent secondary causal pathways representing cumulative effects over time. * = temporally weighted.

Figure 3

Inverted hyperbolic discount curves illustrating a preference reversal involving forgoing larger later (health benefits, improved appearance) for smaller sooner (convenience, indulgence) contingencies when choosing between exercise and a competing enjoyable activity, such as video game playing. The y axis depicts subjective value of a reward associated with each of the activities at each time point. The x axis depicts the relative immediacy of receipt of each reward. At point a when both rewards are removed in time, the LL rewards of physical activity are preferred (i.e., have higher subjective value) than the SS rewards of computer game playing. However, with passage of time as SS becomes more immediately available, a spike in value is experienced. At b an indifference point is reached at wherein the value of SS (video game playing) and LL (exercising) are equivalent; at point c, with video game playing immediately available, its subjective value surges past that of exercise (despite having been initially less preferred). Adapted from Ainslie (2013).

Figure 4

Two possibilities for behavior change are presented: enhancing LL value or reducing SS value change. Enhancing the values attached to physical activity outcomes (by increasing salience, or making them more vivid) could raise the value curve (LL*) such that it no longer crosses the SS curve. Likewise, reducing the value of video games (by making them more difficult to access, or less normative) until the window of availability passes, could reduce temptation. Simultaneous enhancement of LL and reduction of SS could be the most efficient means for reducing likelihood of preference reversal in favor of a competing sedentary behavior.