Heart rate variability and self-control--A meta-analysis.

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Psychophysiology
• Behavioral Science

Background:

• Heart rate variability (HRV) is proposed as a biological marker for self-control.
• Existing research shows inconsistent findings regarding the strength and direction of the HRV-self-control relationship.

Purpose of the Study:

• To meta-analyze the association between resting heart rate variability and self-control in laboratory settings.
• To investigate potential moderating factors, including task characteristics, HRV assessment methods, and demographics.

Main Methods:

• A meta-analysis integrating data from 26 studies (132 effect sizes) with 2317 participants.
• Random effects model with robust variance estimation was employed.
• Meta-regressions were used to explore moderating variables.

Main Results:

• A small, positive average effect size (r=0.15) was found for the association between resting HRV and self-control.
• Moderate heterogeneity (I(2)=56.10%) was observed across studies.
• No significant moderators were identified through meta-regression analysis.

Conclusions:

• A weak positive association exists between resting heart rate variability and self-control.
• Evidence of publication bias necessitates cautious interpretation of the findings.
• Further research is needed to clarify the HRV-self-control relationship and potential moderators.