ABSTRACT

This chapter discusses different perspectives on how self-control can be positioned in dual-system theories of information processing and behavior. Self-control has been defined as one’s capacity or ability to overrule one’s inner, impulsive responses, as well as to interrupt undesired behavioral tendencies. The chapter discusses different views on self-control in a dual-systems perspective, including the state-of-the-art in self-control research. Because the effects of self-control on human behavior, health, and well-being are so widespread and pervasive, self-control has been at the core of an abundance of research in the area of psychology. Of course, although avoidance may be highly effective in terms of self-control outcomes, it is not always possible, or at least not to an extent that there is no confrontation with temptations whatsoever. However, other automatized strategies can help in situations in which avoidance is not possible as well, like in the form of habits, or routines.