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Self-Regulation through Goal Setting

Author

Listed:
  • Koch, Alexander K.

    () (Aarhus University)

  • Nafziger, Julia

    () (Aarhus University)

Abstract

Goals are an important source of motivation. But little is known about why and how people set them. We address these questions in a model based on two stylized facts from psychology and behavioral economics: i) Goals serve as reference points for performance. ii) Present-biased preferences create self-control problems. We show how goals permit self-regulation, but also that they are painful self-disciplining devices. Greater self-control problems therefore lead to stronger self-regulation through goals only up to a certain point. For severely present-biased preferences, the required goal for self-regulation is too painful and the individual rather gives up.

Suggested Citation

  • Koch, Alexander K. & Nafziger, Julia, 2008. "Self-Regulation through Goal Setting," IZA Discussion Papers 3893, Institute for the Study of Labor (IZA).
    • Handle: RePEc:iza:izadps:dp3893
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    self-control; time inconsistency; motivation; psychology; goals;

    JEL classification:

    • A12 - General Economics and Teaching - - General Economics - - - Relation of Economics to Other Disciplines
    • C70 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Game Theory and Bargaining Theory - - - General
    • D91 - Microeconomics - - Micro-Based Behavioral Economics - - - Role and Effects of Psychological, Emotional, Social, and Cognitive Factors on Decision Making

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