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Published on: February 25, 2016
Biological systems and the development of self-regulation: integrating behavior, genetics, and psychophysiology
Martha Ann Bell1, Kirby Deater-Deckard
1Department of Psychology, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA. mabell@vt.edu
Abstract:
Self-regulation is the ability to control inner states or responses with respect to thoughts, emotions, attention, and performance. As such, it is a critical aspect of development and fundamental to personality and behavioral adjustment. In this review, we focus on attentional, cognitive, and emotional control as we discuss the genetic mechanisms and brain mechanisms that contribute to individual differences in self-regulation. We conclude with a discussion of the implications for deviations in the development of this complex construct and suggestions for future research.
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