1) Self control occurs when an organism produces a change in the environment which in turn alters the frequency of some performances in its own repertoire. Thus, the dieter who stores peanuts and candy in an inaccessible place is engaging in a performance which changes the environment so that the frequency of eating peanuts and candy is reduced. The reinforcement of the self-control behavior is negative in this case because it prevents overeating, which has aversive consequences for the dieter.

2) A term derived from the colloquial vocabulary that applies to cases in which a relatively immediate small reinforcer is deferred in favor of a later large reinforcer or in favor of avoiding a later large aversive event, or in which a relatively immediate small aversive event is accepted when the acceptance leads to a later large reinforcer or avoids a later large aversive event. Examples include deferring a small purchase to save for a large one, refusing a drink to avoid a hangover, exercising to perform well in a later athletic event, and undergoing preventive dental procedures. The opposite of self-control is called impulsiveness or impulsivity.

3) Choosing a larger more delayed reinforcer over a smaller more immediate reinforcer. (Examples are completing a work assignment instead of watching TV, allowing time to visit friends on the weekend, or avoiding the pressure of a last-minute rush.) Sometimes referred to as self-management. 8, 30

4) Behavior which has long-term benefits but for which there are no conspicuous immediate reinforcers. (1) behavior which reduces the likelihood of future punishment but results in losing immediate reinforcement, or (2) behavior which increases the likelihood of long-term reinforcement but results in immediate punishment. An example of (1) is giving up a reinforcing food to avoid the delayed punishment of gaining weight. An example of (2) is jogging (which most people find mildly punishing) in order to feel healthier later.

5) From a behavioral perspective, self-control occurs when a person emits a response that affects the probability of subsequent behavior in the following way. giving up immediate gains for greater long-term benefits or accepting immediate negative consequences for later positive outcomes. When people manage their behavior in such a way that they choose the more beneficial long-range consequences, they are said to show self-control.