Which of the following best defines self-regulation?

Self-regulation is best understood as the ability to manage one’s own behavior, emotions, and thoughts in pursuit of long-term goals, often without the influence of external rewards. This involves an internalized control over impulses and the capacity to delay gratification in order to adhere to personal standards and values.

The correct answer highlights that self-regulation is primarily about internal mechanisms that allow individuals to direct their own behavior effectively, rather than relying on rewards from the environment. This ability is critical for various aspects of life, including academic performance, interpersonal relationships, and overall mental health.

The other choices tap into related concepts but do not fully capture the essence of self-regulation. For instance, the notion of changing attitudes based on external rewards speaks more to external influences on behavior rather than the internal processes that self-regulation entails. Observational learning focuses on acquiring behaviors through the observation of others rather than self-directed control, and the enhancement of social behavior does not directly address individual self-management. Thus, the focus on internal control and the absence of reliance on external motivators distinctly defines self-regulation.