Feeling Low on Self-Control?

There may be a biological reason. According to a recent research study at the University of Iowa using brain imaging technology (fMRI), being exposed to a situation requiring self-control may increase the possibility of experiencing more difficulty with subsequent situations requiring self-control. The study found that there is a limited amount of self-control in the brain, regulated by the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, which researchers at the University of Iowa found functions with less intensity and effectiveness as situations requiring self-control increase. After this “pool” has been exhausted, one will be more likely to have difficulty in situations requiring self-control and will be more likely to give into tempting situations.  This would have a significant impact on dieters, for example.

As the researchers stated, “this interpretation explains why someone who works very hard not to take seconds of lasagna at dinner winds up taking two pieces of cake at dessert.”  Fortunately, there are tools and techniques that can be learned and used effectively when faced with these situations.

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Thanks for reading!

~Author: Kelly Carrier, MEd, LPCA