Regulating speed, accuracy and judgments by indecisives: Effects of frequent choices on self-regulation depletion

Abstract

Two studies examined individual differences in indecision on performance speed, accuracy, and subsequent self-control. In Study 1, indecisives (n=36) took longer yet maintained accuracy as decisives (n=39) on a Stroop task anticipating feedback (no feedback, success, or failure). Indecisives in the no feedback condition depleted their self-regulatory resources while maintaining accuracy. In Study 2 the number of Stroop trials increased with no performance feedback. Indecisives (n=25) compared to decisives (n=25) maintained accuracy yet took significantly longer and experienced depleted self-control. Prior choice exertion by indecisives to regulate effectively performance accuracy depleted capacity for subsequent self-control, and indecisives seem aware of lowered self-regulation energy. A self-control strength model may be important in understanding indecision.