This study used a theoretically-derived set of items of the Achenbach System of Empirically Based Assessment to develop the Achenbach Self-Control Scale (ASCS) for 7-16 year olds. Using a large dataset of over 20,000 children, who are enrolled in the Netherlands Twin Register, we demonstrated the psychometric properties of the ASCS for parent-, self- and teacher-report by examining internal and...

Self-control performance may be improved by the regular practice of small acts of self-control. Ninety-two adults' self-control capacity was assessed using the stop signal paradigm before they started practicing self-control and again at the end of two weeks. Participants who practiced self-control by cutting back on sweets or squeezing a handgrip exhibited significant improvement in stop signa...

We propose a broadly applicable empirical approach to classify individuals as time-consistent versus naive or sophisticated regarding their self-control limitations. Operationalizing our based on nationally representative data reveals that problems are pervasive and most people at least partly aware of limited self-control. Compared naifs, sophisticates have higher IQs, better educated parents,...