Justification processes in self-regulation

Abstract

Aims: This symposium aims to introduce justification as a central, but understudied, process in the domain of self-regulation. Specifically, we aim to present novel findings on the role of justifications in triggering self-regulation failure (self-licensing) and to discuss recent findings highlighting the use of justifications in the aftermath of self-regulation failure (confabulation). The talks included in the symposium aim to show the relevance of justification processes in self-regulation by addressing a variety of justification cues and to explore moderating as well as mediating factors. Moreover, we aim to discuss the implications of justifications processes for theorizing in health psychology, and to highlight implications for interventions in the health domain. Rationale: Justifications are a frequently overlooked mechanism underlying self-regulation failure, as well as a relevant psychological consequence of non-consciously triggered self-regulation failure. Recent insights on justification have as of yet only received limited attention in the health domain, despite their significant implications for theory and practice. The EHPS conference provides a perfect opportunity for discussing state of the art research on this topic among health psychologists. Summary: The first three talks (de Witt Huberts, Prinsen, Dohle) will discuss self-licensing as a relevant and distinct route to self-regulation failure. The authors will present findings showing how negative emotions, as well as positive experiences (academic success or engaging in exercising) may be deliberately used as excuses for indulgence. Implications of this rational and deliberate route towards self-regulation failure will be discussed. The second set of talks (Adriaanse & De Ridder) explore ‘confabulation’, as a compensatory justification mechanism to account for non-consciously triggered self-regulation failure. The authors will present data testing a novel model delineating when and how various types of justifications may be triggered post self-regulation failure and will discuss practical implications of these down-stream consequences of self-regulation failure.