Temporal Mindsets and Self-Regulation: The Motivation and Implementation of Self-Regulatory Behaviors

Journal of Consumer Psychology, 25(2), 231-244

37 Pages Posted: 4 Apr 2015

See all articles by Denise Buhrau

Denise Buhrau

State University of New York, SUNY at Stony Brook University, College of Business

Mita Sujan

Tulane University

Date Written: November 13, 2014

Abstract

Self-regulation requires connecting desired goals (benefits sought) with means of attainment (implementation plans). Individual differences in the consideration of future consequences (CFC) can influence self-regulation. Although a high- (low-) CFC orientation has generally been considered a preoccupation with future (present) events and needs, we argue that a complete characterization also includes the ability (less ability) to construct specific action plans. With a mix of lab and field studies, we demonstrate that either general implementation recommendations or distant benefits trigger planning and motivate self-regulation for high-CFC individuals. Specific implementation recommendations coupled with proximate benefits help low-CFC individuals plan and self-regulate. In Study 1, we measure CFC and vary the temporal location of benefits and specificity of implementation recommendations to motivate exercising and show that self- generated specific plans mediate self-regulatory intentions. In Study 2, we assess actual self- regulatory behaviors for participants in a walking program. This research has theoretical implications for the temporal construal and planning literatures and practical implications for increasing self-regulation among individuals who do not consider the long-term consequences of their current actions.

Keywords: Consideration of future consequences; Self-regulation; Planning

Suggested Citation

Buhrau, Denise and Sujan, Mita, Temporal Mindsets and Self-Regulation: The Motivation and Implementation of Self-Regulatory Behaviors (November 13, 2014). Journal of Consumer Psychology, 25(2), 231-244, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=2589100

Denise Buhrau (Contact Author)

State University of New York, SUNY at Stony Brook University, College of Business ( email )

306 Harriman Hall
Stony Brook, NY 11794
United States

Mita Sujan

Tulane University ( email )

6823 St Charles Ave
New Orleans, LA 70118
United States

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