Katzir, M. , Eyal, T. , Meiran, N. & Kessler, Y.
Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
Successful self-control (i.e., adherence to a long-term goal in the face of an interfering short-term goal, or temptation) relies on the ability to inhibit temptations. This research explores the effect of considered positive emotional events on inhibition. We propose that the influence of considered emotions on inhibition depends on whether the emotion corresponds to a long-term goal (i.e., pride) or a short-term temptation (i.e., joy), because considering emotions primes their corresponding goals. In a series of experiments we find that considering a joyful event harms inhibitory processes compared to considering a prideful event. These findings suggest a possible mechanism underlying the role of considered positive emotions in pursuit of goals that require self-control.