A self-control training app to increase self-control and reduce aggression - A full factorial design.

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Behavioral Science
• Digital Health

Background:

• Self-control training (SCT) is effective for enhancing self-control and reducing behaviors like aggression.
• A novel app was developed to deliver SCT through daily tasks using the non-dominant hand.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of an SCT app compared to email delivery and varying task loads (one vs. five daily tasks).
• To assess improvements in self-control and reductions in aggression among study participants.

Main Methods:

• A 2x2 factorial design with a control group (N=204) was employed.
• Self-control was measured using the Brief Self-Control Scale (BSCS) and Go/No-Go task; aggression was assessed via the Brief Aggression Questionnaire (BAQ).
• Quantitative data were analyzed using linear mixed models; qualitative data from open-ended questions were analyzed via inductive coding.

Main Results:

• Participants using the SCT app showed significant improvements in BSCS scores over time.
• No significant improvements in self-control were observed in the email or control groups.
• No meaningful differences in aggression or performance on the Go/No-Go task were found across conditions.

Conclusions:

• The SCT app demonstrates potential for enhancing self-control in a student population.
• The app's effectiveness on aggression requires further investigation in populations with aggression regulation issues.
• Future research should explore personalized SCT interventions and applications for behaviors like physical activity and smoking cessation.