What does the concept of ego depletion refer to?

The concept of ego depletion refers to the idea that self-control is a limited resource. This theory suggests that engaging in acts of self-control or making decisions can drain one's mental resources, leading to a decreased ability to exert self-control in subsequent situations. Research in psychology has shown that after individuals exert self-control on one task, they are often less able to maintain self-control on a different task. This phenomenon is thought to be due to the mental and emotional energy that is consumed during the exertion of self-control.

Understanding ego depletion is important in various contexts, such as behavior change, addiction, and daily decision-making, as it highlights the challenges individuals face when attempting to maintain self-discipline in the face of temptations or competing priorities.