A model of self-discipline

In this paper, we propose a model of self-discipline where a decision-maker balances the benefits of regulating her moods against a cost of self-discipline effort. Self-discipline is beneficial as it reduces the chances of internal conflict, yet it is a costly effort to undertake. We provide an axiomatic characterization of our model in a menu-choice framework, and show how costs of self-discipline can be elicited and compared across individuals. Our model generalizes well-known models of temptation-driven behavior by viewing temptations as the endogenous outcome of a self-discipline choice problem.