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The Conceptual Foundations of Self-Control and its Link to Impulsivity and Attention

Author

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  • Cobb-Clark, Deborah

    (University of Sydney)

  • Silva Goncalves, Juliana

    (University of Sydney)

  • Tymula, Agnieszka

    (University of Sydney)

  • Wang, Xueting

    (RMIT)

Abstract

Self-control, attention, and impulsivity jointly support goal-directed behavior yet are often examined in isolation with heterogeneous measures. We integrate validated self-reported scales with a hybrid, incentivized behavioral task that synthesizes two canonical experimental designs and adds novel extensions to measure these constructs in a typical work context. Using data from a preregistered four-session online study (N = 443 adults), we characterize the cross-relationships and the relationships between different measures of self-control, attention, and impulsivity and evaluate their contributions to effort allocation over time. More broadly, the study advances an emerging research program that leverages laboratory settings with well-structured economic incentives to examine the role of personality traits and cognitive limitations in economic decision making.

Suggested Citation

  • Cobb-Clark, Deborah & Silva Goncalves, Juliana & Tymula, Agnieszka & Wang, Xueting, 2026. "The Conceptual Foundations of Self-Control and its Link to Impulsivity and Attention," IZA Discussion Papers 18646, IZA Network @ LISER.
    • Handle: RePEc:iza:izadps:dp18646
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    JEL classification:

    • D81 - Microeconomics - - Information, Knowledge, and Uncertainty - - - Criteria for Decision-Making under Risk and Uncertainty
    • D83 - Microeconomics - - Information, Knowledge, and Uncertainty - - - Search; Learning; Information and Knowledge; Communication; Belief; Unawareness
    • D91 - Microeconomics - - Micro-Based Behavioral Economics - - - Role and Effects of Psychological, Emotional, Social, and Cognitive Factors on Decision Making

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