Date of Award
2023
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Department
Psychology
Abstract
Research has focused on understanding the offending behavior of minor attracted persons (MAPs) due to the negative impact their behaviors have on some of the most vulnerable members of society. Further, many different models of impulsivity have been developed to explain these offending behaviors. However, limited research focuses on non-offending MAPs and gaining knowledge about what prevents them from offending. The present study attempted to fill this gap by exploring the relationship between trait self-control and ego-depletion on expression of sexual words. Additionally, the relationship between trait self-control and mental health was assessed. The present study utilized a survey approach to assess individuals trait self-control, self-control demands, mental health, and sexual expression. Twelve participants were randomly assigned to either a control condition or an ego-depletion condition that required completion of the Stroop task. All participants completed a word task to evaluate sexual expression. Participants in the ego-depletion condition expressed fewer sexual words than those in the control group suggesting that ego-depletion does not lead to increased sexual expression in MAPs. A significant positive relationship was found between trait self-control and sexual expression, suggesting that higher trait self-control is related to higher expression of sexual words. Finally, a significant relationship between trait self-control and mental health was not found. The unexpected small sample size significantly limits the generalizability of these findings.
Recommended Citation
Bonilla, Amaya Kathia, "Trait Self-Control, Ego-Depletion, And Mental Health In Non-Offending Minor Attracted Persons" (2023). All-Inclusive List of Electronic Theses and Dissertations. 2166.
https://scholars.indianastate.edu/etds/2166