Abstract
The present study examines whether social interference (i.e., interference with one’s goal attainment by the bodily presence of others) depletes the limited resource of self-control strength. In an experimental laboratory study (N = 34), half the participants experienced social interference whereas the other half did not experience social interference by two confederates during a dexterity task. Afterwards, we measured participants’ momentary self-control strength applying a Stroop colour-naming task. In line with our prediction, participants’ performance in the Stroop task indicated that social interference reduced self-control strength. We discuss implications for crowding research and crowding in natural settings.
Highlights
The presence of other people frequently interferes with individual goals: In crowded pedestrian zones, other people may walk in front, stand in the way, or walk across one’s projected path; in busy supermarkets, other people may block access to shelves containing desired goods
We assume that social interference requires self-control and, depletes the resource underlying self-control, which in turn is expected to lead to reduced performance in subsequent self-control demands
We focus on the case in which others physically block individuals’ moving paths with their bodies, thereby impairing individuals in moving from place A to place B. Such interference with a physical goal may often be related to interference with a psychological goal; for instance, when a person who is in a hurry to keep an important appointment is slowed down by others in a crowded pedestrian zone
Summary
The presence of other people frequently interferes with individual goals: In crowded pedestrian zones, other people may walk in front, stand in the way, or walk across one’s projected path; in busy supermarkets, other people may block access to shelves containing desired goods. When this happens, individuals are forced to coordinate their own movement with that of others, make avoidance movements, adjust their speed, or wait. In cities, social interference may be an integral part of everyday life (e.g., in pedestrian zones, in shops, and in railway stations)
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