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Lead me not into temptation: using cognitive reappraisal to reduce goal inconsistent behavior
Véronique Leroy1, Jacques Grégoire, Eran Magen
1Department of Psychology, Université Catholique de Louvain, Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium. Veronique.leroy@uclouvain.be
Plos One
|August 23, 2012
Summary
Cognitive reappraisal helps resist temptation by reframing challenges as tests of willpower. This strategy improves task performance and reduces susceptibility to distractions, aiding long-term goal achievement.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Cognitive Science
Background:
- Resisting temptation is crucial for achieving long-term goals.
- Cognitive strategies may offer a way to enhance self-control.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if cognitive reappraisal can improve performance on tasks involving temptation.
- To examine the effect of cognitive reappraisal on subjective temptation levels.
Main Methods:
- Two studies were conducted involving participants performing tasks while exposed to temptations.
- Participants in the experimental group used cognitive reappraisal, viewing the situation as a willpower test.
- Control groups did not engage in cognitive reappraisal.
Main Results:
- Cognitive reappraisal significantly improved task performance in both studies.
- Participants using cognitive reappraisal reported lower levels of temptation in Study 2.
- Reappraisal made the temptation less attractive and the task more appealing.
Conclusions:
- Cognitive reappraisal is an effective strategy for resisting temptation.
- This cognitive technique enhances self-control and task focus.
- Findings support the use of reappraisal for goal attainment in distracting environments.
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