Self-Regulation
Fabian Rosales
an infographic created as part of Dr. Erchull’s Social Psychology course
(Spring 2021)
Students were asked to “give psychology away” through an infographic designed to educate an audience of their choice about an idea from social psychology that the group would benefit from understanding
TOPIC: self-regulation
AUDIENCE: teenagers
If you added a section to give people advice on when they may need professional help, what would that look like? How can people decide whether they need to just keep trying harder to change a behavior or when it’s time to potentially make an appointment with a licensed clinical psychologist to work through relevant issues (e.g., substance abuse)?
Great question! I would probably say that when the problem is something that they can’t control alone like addiction, that they would need to seek professional help. I would mention some examples of help like a psychologist, a doctor & support groups. I think that if people don’t accomplish their goal in a certain amount of time or are at risk of hurting themselves or others, that they should probably go see a licensed clinical psychologist for help.
Why do you suppose that we can’t control our own behavior on a consistent basis? If Chris wants to lose weight, and decides to stop drinking soda, why do you suppose that it’s so difficult? Don’t we control our own behavior? Asking for me, and also because it’s a fascinating aspect of human nature.
Great question! I think that because it’s easier to keep our behavior consistent even if it’s negative, that people can’t control their behavior. It’s very difficult for Chris to stop drinking soda because it’s being offered to him for free & it may be the only drink available. People may think that having to change your habits may not be worth the positive change.
I think that this is an interesting topic. I feel like everyone can improve their self-regulation skills in one way or another. I really liked how you included the real life example. I thought it was a good way to wrap up the project and it helped put the things that I just read about into perspective. Do you think it is harder to self-regulate adding things to your lifestyle (going to the gym) or taking things away (cutting out soda)?