Interpersonal functioning requires self-regulation

In this paper, we present evidence that supports the hypothesis that to be socially successful, people must have good self-regulation. Fifteen lines of research, including resistance to influence attempts, self-presentation, regulatory focus and interpersonal inspiration, accommodative responses, resisting the temptation of attractive alternates, self-serving biases in close relationships, conforming to group pressures, mixed race interactions, and stereotyping outgroup members, confirm the hypothesis. This review concludes that social functioning hinges on a host of self-control strategies: when people regulate their emotions, control the contents of their thoughts, override initial impulses, and redirect their behavior, they improve their chances at social inclusion. When people fail at self-regulation, they are likely to be ousted from groups and relationships. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)