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.