Van H. Blog Post 2: Self Control

 

The Ainslie–Rachlin Model of Self-Control


The Ainslie and Rachlin model focuses on control and reward. Simply put, the model can be defined as the change in preference of having a smaller reward sooner or a large reward later. An example would be how many college students start their day with the intentions to study for an upcoming exam, but later in the day, they find themselves watching Netflix. As time passes, the reward of watching a show or movie seems greater than the reward of studying. This can also be defined as a reversal of preference. To further explain, the value of the reward increases and time decreases. 

Another common example is asking a child if they would rather open their Christmas gifts a few days early or enjoy more presents all at once on Christmas Day. Since the reward of opening a gift earlier is much more appealing in time and value, the child is likely to pick the first choice. However, as Christmas approaches, the value of Christmas Day increases! 





Sources:

Honey, P., Powell, R., & Symbaluk, D. G. (2016). Introduction to learning and behavior (5th ed.). CENGAGE Learning Custom Publishing.

Ainslie, George. “ A Selectionist Model of the Ego: Implications for Self-Control.” Pico, picoeconomics.org/HTarticles/Selectionist/Seledtionist.html. 

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