Self‐control, fluctuating willpower, and forensic practice

This article aims to explain the relevance of new findings about self‐control and willpower for antisocial behaviour and forensic practice.

The relevance of the phenomena is covered first, followed by an exposition of how self‐control works.

The basic ingredients for effective self‐control are standards, monitoring, and willpower. Willpower fluctuates as a function of demands on it (including decision making) and bodily states (including food and rest). Self‐control and willpower can be increased, even in adults.

Antisocial and criminal behaviour is often mediated by failures of self‐control. Remediation and prevention can benefit by applying a correct understanding of how self‐control functions.

Understanding of self‐control has advanced greatly in recent years and is highly relevant to forensic practice. Clients can learn to gain control over their actions.