Higher Trait Self-Control Is Associated with Less Intense Visceral States

Abstract

Trait self-control correlates with desirable outcomes including physical and psychological well- being and is thought to facilitate the formation of effective habits. Visceral states, including internal drives that motivate specific behaviors, have been found to undermine self-control. The current study tested the hypothesis that individuals higher in trait self-control experience less intense and a lower likelihood of visceral states and explored possible mediators. We found that trait self-control negatively correlates with responses to one-shot measures of hunger, fatigue, experiencing stress, and experiencing the common cold. Reports of recent sleeping and eating behavior mediated some of these relationships, consistent with the idea that healthful behaviors help individuals higher in trait self-control minimize visceral states. This research supports emerging perspectives on trait self-control’s contributions to positive outcomes.

Investigating the role of self‐control beliefs in predicting exercise behaviour: A longitudinal study

“…Self‐control is defined as an individuals’ capacity to resist temptations, break habits, overturn impulses, and generally avoid the ‘dominant response’ (Baumeister et al., 1998; Hagger et al., 2010). Trait self‐control reflects individuals’ capacity to self‐organize, engage in sustained goal‐directed action, and persevere in the face of obstacles (Baldwin, Finley, Garrison, Crowell, & Schmeichel, 2019; Gottfredson & Hirschi, 1990). Having ‘good’ self‐control is associated with persistence on tasks and goal‐directed behaviour, and reduced vulnerability to self‐control failure or depletion , as indicated by a reduced capacity to exert self‐control when tasks demand it.…”

The Link Between Personal Self-Control and Dieting Intent is not accounted for by Body Dissatisfaction or Dieting Success Perceptions.

“…Therefore, we can argue that high self-control is linked to greater dieting success because the lower body weight means the individuals are closer to a thin-ideal body shape to begin with, and therefore their desired level of weight loss is more attainable. One explanation for this relationship may be that thinner individuals (or more successful dieters) have greater selfcontrol with respect to food due to natural biological variation; they simply do not experience the same temptation due to experiencing less hunger, nor no experience food rewards in the same way (Baldwin, Finley, Garrison, Crowell, & Schmeichel, 2018;Meule, Lutz, Vögele, & Kübler, 2012;Ouwehand & Ridder, 2008).…”