Self-Regulation - The Impact of Cognitive Theory on Human and Computer Development - page 35

CHAPTER 5
Self-Regulation
Introduction
Self-regulation involves a twofold control structure including inspiration for and perform-
ance of action. Bandura and Locke (2003) described a system of proactive construction and
reactive discrepancy as the human condition of hopeful aspiration versus simply reaction to
immediate conditions or consequences of recent actions. Ordinarily, people motivate them-
selves by setting arduous goals and performance criterion (Bandura and Locke). Dealing
with the challenges and barriers is necessary, but they do not function as motivators them-
selves. If challenges and barriers functioned as motivators, goals would be set to match what
was previously done and thus avoid discrepancies in the measurement (Bandura and Locke).
Siegert, McPherson, and Taylor (2004) linked the concepts of self-regulation, goal setting,
and motivation in their discussion of understanding and changing human development.
Bandura (2004) contended motivation improves when personal goals have merit to in-
dividual value systems. The stronger incentives provide potency for alterations in health
habits. Long-term goals set the course for personal change, but opposing influences over
time make them difficult to accomplish (Bandura). Bandura indicated improved success
with short-term, achievable goals having greater immediate impact, encouraging self-effic-
acy and desire to stay on track. Siegert et al. endorsed the setting of SMART goals: “goals
that are specific, measurable, achievable, realistic and time-limited, and there is undoubtedly
considerable practical wisdom in this frequently quoted acronym” (p. 1182).
The concept of self-regulation of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors may allude to planned
actions to accomplish desired goals. Sniehotta, Schwarzer, Scholz, and Schuz (2005)
demonstrated planning is a critical factor for the success of health behavior change. They
described planning, although it is a mental process, as a self-regulatory tactic and a bridge
from intention to tangible change. Planning includes subdivisions of action planning and
coping planning (Sniehotta et al., pp. 566-567). The two constructs have separate substance
and utility: action planning is task facilitating and coping planning is distraction inhibiting
(Sniehotta et al.). Action planning, synonymous with the accomplishment of intentions, has
a direct relation to goal setting and stipulates when, where, and how to act. Sniehotta et al.
(p. 567) reported individuals who form action plans have an increased likelihood of reach-
ing the intended goal faster. Confirmed findings exist in areas such as tetanus inoculation
(Leventhal, Singer, and Jones 1965), cervical cancer screening (Shreeran and Orbell 2000),
breast self-examination (Luszczynska and Schwarzer 2003), physical activity (Sniehotta et