Self-control and health outcomes in a nationally representative sample

Citation

Miller, Holly Ventura; Barnes, J. C.; & Beaver, Kevin M. (2011). Self-control and health outcomes in a nationally representative sample. American Journal of Health Behavior. vol. 35 (1) pp. 15-27

Abstract

Objectives : To explore the link between low self-control during adolescence and health problems in early adulthood.

Methods : Using data from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health, we examined the relationship between varying levels of self-control and the likelihood of being diagnosed with a variety of physical and brainbased health conditions.

Results : Results from logistic regression analyses indicated that subjects with lower levels of self-control had significantly higher odds of being diagnosed with 9 of the 10 health outcomes.

Conclusions : Targeting the development of selfcontrol in childhood and adolescence may be valuable in preventing future health problems.

URL

http://dx.doi.org/10.5993%2FAJHB.35.1.2

Reference Type

Journal Article

Journal Title

American Journal of Health Behavior

Author(s)

Miller, Holly Ventura
Barnes, J. C.
Beaver, Kevin M.

Year Published

2011

Volume Number

35

Issue Number

1

Pages

15-27

ISSN/ISBN

1087-3244

DOI

10.5993/AJHB.35.1.2

Reference ID

1343