Is the nonlimited resource theory of willpower adaptive? A self-control perspective

Abstract

We conducted three studies to examine the effect of implicit theories of willpower on future self-control task performance through differences in cognitive resource conservation and replenishment after initial self-control exertions. Study 1 showed that implicit theories of willpower moderate the effects of cognitive resource conservation. Individuals who considered willpower a limited cognitive resource conserved the resource for subsequent self-control actions, contrary to those who considered willpower nonlimited. Study 2 demonstrated that individuals who considered willpower nonlimited attempted less restoration after self-control acts than those who considered it limited, leading to impaired subsequent self-control actions (ego depletion). Study 3 showed that with high ego depletion, subsequent self-control actions improved after restoration even for those who considered willpower nonlimited. The findings demonstrate the strength of those who consider willpower limited, and the weakness of those who consider it nonlimited.