Self-control (or willpower) seeks to bias the resolution of motivational conflicts toward an individual's long-term interests

Behav Brain Sci. 2021 Apr 26:44:e51. doi: 10.1017/S0140525X2000093X.

Abstract

We define self-control as an individual's efforts to bias the outcome of present or anticipated motivational conflicts in order to increase the likelihood that subsequent behavior serves perceived long-term interests. We suggest suppression and resolve are not "mechanisms" that underlie self-control, but rather are classes of strategies that influence motivations in order to increase the likelihood of successful self-control outcomes.

Publication types

  • Comment

MeSH terms

  • Bias
  • Humans
  • Motivation*
  • Self-Control*