High self-control predicts good adjustment, less pathology, better grades, and interpersonal success.
What good is self-control? We incorporated a new measure of individual differences in self-control into two large investigations of a broad spectrum of behaviors. The new scale showed good internal consistency and retest reliability. Higher scores on self-control correlated with a higher grade point average, better adjustment (fewer reports of psychopathology, higher self-esteem), less binge eating and alcohol abuse, better relationships and interpersonal skills, secure attachment, and more optimal emotional responses. Tests for curvilinearity failed to indicate any drawbacks of so-called overcontrol, and the positive effects remained after controlling for social desirability. Low self-control is thus a significant risk factor for a broad range of personal and interpersonal problems.
Tangney
June P
JP
Department of Psychology, Case Western Reserve University, 4400 University Drive, Fairfax, VA 22030-4444, USA.
Baumeister
Roy F
RF
Boone
Angie Luzio
AL
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D001519:Behavior; D002755:Choice Behavior; D004522:Educational Status; D004644:Emotions; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007389:Internal-External Control; D007398:Interpersonal Relations; D008297:Male; D008603:Mental Health; D008875:Middle Aged; D015203:Reproducibility of Results; D012649:Self Concept; D020377:Self Efficacy; D012917:Social Adjustment