Emotional calibration of self-control

Joaquin Gomez-Minambres and Eric Schniter

Journal of Behavioral and Experimental Economics (formerly The Journal of Socio-Economics), 2017, vol. 68, issue C, 110-118

Abstract: We study a dynamic model of self-control where previous decisions have influence on subsequent decision making. In our model effort and guilt are negative emotions produced by previous decisions to either resist or yield to temptation, respectively. These emotions calibrate an individual's self-control, in turn affecting future decisions. Our model explains non-stationary consumption paths characterized by compensatory indulgence and restraint, why under some circumstances the amplitude of this switching pattern increases with foresight, and how unavoidable options that might show up on one's menu influence choices, consequent emotions, consumption paths, and preferences for commitment. We discuss the implications of self-control insights provided by our model for both consumers and marketers.

Keywords: Self-control; Emotion; Dynamic choice; Temptation; Commitment (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: D11 D90 I12 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2017
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Citations: View citations in EconPapers (3)

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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:eee:soceco:v:68:y:2017:i:c:p:110-118

DOI: 10.1016/j.socec.2017.04.003

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