Self-Control as Self-Regulation: A Return to Control Theory |
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Authors: | Chae Mamayek Raymond Paternoster Thomas A. Loughran |
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Affiliation: | University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland, USA |
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Abstract: | In an effort to build on previous theory and research it is argued that self-control is not synonymous with impulsivity, but rather should be conceptualized as self-regulation: the capacity to override impulsive desires. Using a sample of college students and a sample of serious adult criminal offenders, we test four hypotheses regarding the relationship between self-regulation, impulsivity, and several outcome measures reflecting antisocial or criminal behavior. Our findings within the college sample more strongly support the notion of self-control as self-regulation. The result differences between samples also highlight the need to consider limitations when generalizing results from more conventional student groups. |
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