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Trait self-control is predicted by how reward associations modulate Stroop interference.

Max Wolff1, Klaus-Martin Krönke2, Thomas Goschke2

  • 1Department of Psychology, Technische Universität, Zellescher Weg 17, 01069, Dresden, Germany. max.wolff@tu-dresden.de.

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|September 26, 2015
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Summary

This study introduces a new cognitive marker, modulation of interference by reward associations (MIRA), to better measure trait self-control. MIRA shows strong correlations with self-control scales, suggesting it reflects individual differences in self-control abilities.

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Area of Science:

  • Cognitive Psychology
  • Neuroscience
  • Behavioral Science

Background:

  • Trait self-control is crucial for adaptive functioning.
  • Existing laboratory measures of cognitive control show weak correlations with trait self-control.
  • Self-control may involve inhibiting responses to rewarding stimuli.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To propose and validate the modulation of interference by reward associations (MIRA) as a cognitive marker for trait self-control.
  • To investigate the relationship between MIRA and established measures of self-control.
  • To explore MIRA's potential as an endophenotype for self-control and related disorders.

Main Methods:

  • Two independent samples completed a modified Stroop task to assess MIRA.
  • Participants also completed the Brief Self-Control Scale (BSCS) and the Barratt Impulsiveness Scale (BIS-11).
  • Correlational analyses examined the relationship between MIRA and self-control measures.

Main Results:

  • MIRA demonstrated strong correlations with the BSCS.
  • MIRA showed moderate correlations with two subscales of the BIS-11.
  • These findings support MIRA as a valid cognitive indicator of self-control.

Conclusions:

  • The modulation of interference by reward associations (MIRA) serves as a promising cognitive endophenotype for trait self-control.
  • MIRA may offer a more sensitive measure of self-control than traditional cognitive control tasks.
  • This cognitive marker could have implications for understanding and potentially treating mental disorders linked to self-control deficits.