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Aspiration fuels willpower: Evidence from the addiction literature

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  26 April 2021

Gene M. Heyman Open the ORCID record for Gene M. Heyman [Opens in a new window]
Gene M. Heyman*
Affiliation:
Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, Boston College, Chestnut Hill, MA02467. [email protected]; https://geneheyman.com/wordpress/
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Abstract

Ainslie identifies two possible motivational sources for resolve: “thinking categorically” and “intertemporal bargaining.” Ainslie opts for intertemporal bargaining, adding that thinking categorically has no motivational power. The most researched instance of willpower is remission from addiction. This literature shows that aspirations for a more desirable identity and comfortable lifestyle motivate remission. In other words, “thinking categorically” drives willpower.

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Open Peer Commentary
Information
Behavioral and Brain Sciences , Volume 44 , 2021 , e39
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Creative Commons
The target article and response article are works of the U.S. Government and are not subject to copyright protection in the United States.
Copyright
Copyright © The Author(s), 2021. Published by Cambridge University Press

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