In more control or letting go? Consequences on your mental health

What is your comfort level? Some everyday situations sometimes prompt us to curb our emotions and control our behavior. This need for control is no coincidence, it helps us to avoid insulting, hurting the interlocutor or creating a bad atmosphere within a group of friends.

self-control Often praised as a virtue. This will lead to many positive outcomes, according to a study published in January 2021 in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of SciencesHowever, recent work by Swedish scientists contradicts these findings. When it is excessive, “self-control” can harm us.

To reach this conclusion, researchers from the University of Zurich, led by Professor Carlos Alos-Ferres, published a study. psychology today in September 2022 in which they compared data from 3,000 participants. they exposed them particularly stressful situations And a certain amount of self-control is required. Scientists then studied the psychological consequences caused by their decision.

And the results are clear, those surveyed have a better view of themselves when they do not suppress their “inner impulses.” “They feel more authentic, that is, they face the best vision of themselves when they do not try to dominate their emotions,” explains the professor in charge of the study.

People interviewed Associate A great self-control To erase their personality. When they try to control their emotions they feel as if they are no longer themselves. The approach we have” self-control » Ultimately varies from person to person. Some of us manage to remain ourselves while airing our views, sometimes diplomatically, while others prefer to put their emotions aside and go along with the other.

Carlos Allos-Fares advises not to define yourself through your ability to demonstrate self-control. He also recommends leading yourself “to your natural side,” without really intellectualizing the way you react.