Trait self-control predicts performance on behavioral tests of self-control.
Two studies tested the extent to which trait self-control predicts performance on objective laboratory tests of behavioral self-control. In Study 1, participants attempted to refrain from blinking for a period of 2 minutes. Participants who reported higher trait self-control blinked less often than participants who reported lower trait self-control. In Study 2, participants attempted to tolerate a painful stimulus, and those higher in trait self-control tolerated pain longer than participants lower in trait self-control. These findings indicate that self-reported self-control corresponds moderately well with performance on objective behavioral tests of self-control. The discussion focuses on implications for self-control theory.
Schmeichel
Brandon J
BJ
Department of Psychology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843-4235, USA. Schmeichel@tamu.edu
Zell
Anne
A
D000328:Adult; D000339:Affect; D001767:Blinking; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007389:Internal-External Control; D007398:Interpersonal Relations; D008019:Life Style; D008297:Male; D010146:Pain / Q000523:psychology; D010147:Pain Measurement; D011237:Predictive Value of Tests; D012649:Self Concept; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D013694:Temperament