The Strength Model of Self Control in Sport and Exercise Psychology
The strength model of self control assumes that all acts of self control (e.g. emotion regulation, persistence) are empowered by a single global metaphorical strength that has limited capacity. This strength can become temporarily depleted after a primary self control act, which, in turn, can impair performance in subsequent acts of self control. Recently, the assumptions of the strength model of self control also have been adopted and tested in the field of sport and exercise psychology. The present review paper aims to give an overview of recent developments in self control research based on the strength model of self control. Furthermore, recent research on interventions on how to improve and revitalize self control strength will be presented. Finally, the strength model of self control has been criticized lately, as well as expanded in scope, so the present paper will also discuss alternative explanations of why previous acts of self control can lead to impaired performance in sport and exercise.
Front. Psychol.