Self-Control Demands From Basic Research to Job-Related Applications

Recent theoretical developments and findings in basic research suggest self-control demands (SCDs) to be a unique job stressor. A series of studies in different work settings have corroborated this view. The results show that different forms of SCDs (impulse control, resisting distractions, overcoming inner resistances) (a) contribute significant portions of unique variance to the prediction of various measures of job strain, (b) mutually strengthen each other in their effects on strain, and (c) interact with other forms of SCDs. Furthermore, the relation of SCDs to strain is moderated by various resources like job control, affective organizational commitment, and self-control capacity. Finally, SCDs mediate the relationship between workload and strain.