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An Appraisal of Psychological & Religious Perspectives of Self-control

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Abstract

The boundary between psychology and religion is at its murkiest around topics of interest to both forms of discourse. An attempt to clarify some of the boundary issues specifically present in discussions of self-control or self-regulation, this paper begins by examining self-control in healthy psychological functioning. Research on feedback loops, information processing and ego depletion have highlighted key psychological mechanisms involved in self-control. Next this paper explores common themes in religious perspectives regarding the virtue of self-control and self-restraint. A clear preoccupation of major religious traditions is the management of human passion and desire. In conclusion, three boundary concerns relevant to both psychology and religion are discussed: the meaning of virtue, differences in defining the self in self-control, and relational concerns important to understanding self-control.

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Notes

  1. For sample works in this discussion primarily from a Christian perspective see Brown et al. 1998; Evans 1998; Johnson and Jones 2000; Jones 1994; Murphy 1997.

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Correspondence to Earl D. Bland.

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Bland, E.D. An Appraisal of Psychological & Religious Perspectives of Self-control. J Relig Health 47, 4–16 (2008). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10943-007-9135-0

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