A team of international researchers has found evidence of self-control in childhood leading to slower midlife aging and more success as adults.
Self-control is the ability to control oneself, particularly one’s emotions, impulses, and behaviors. It not only leads to a happier and healthy life but also longevity. However, a newly published study has now found evidence of self-control in childhood resulting in more success as adults and a slower aging process.
The team of international researchers followed 1,037 individuals born in New Zealand between 1972 and 1973. They were all part of the Dunedin Longitudinal Study. The researchers studied the participants from the ages of 3 to 11 years and then later at age 45. They published their findings in Proceedings of the National Academy of Science.
Measuring Self-Control
The children underwent multiple self-control assessments during the first decade of their lives.
Examiners conducted testing sessions where children, aged 3 and 5, performed various cognitive and motor tasks. They observed the child’s ability to control themselves. Later on, between the ages of 5 and 11, parents and teachers of the children completed a behavior questionnaire for the participants. The report provided information on the child’s impulsivity, hyperactivity, and lack of persistence. Additionally, children underwent a psychiatric evaluation at 11 years of age.
The Wechsler Intelligence Scale was used to assess the IQ scores of the children at ages 7,9 and 11 years.
The decades-long study then evaluated the participants at 45 years of age. The researchers evaluated them for various biomarkers of aging. They also conducted brain imaging scans to detect structural changes associated with brain aging. Furthermore, the participants also filled out multiple self-reports. Examiners also interviewed the study participants on their practical financial and health knowledge.
Slower Aging and More Prepared for the Future
The results showed that those with greater self-control in childhood, aged better than people with a lower degree of self-control. Their bodies aged slowly, and they had fewer signs of brain aging. Moreover, those in the highly self-controlled group fared better financially and socially by midlife. They were better equipped to deal with future health, financial, and social demands.
IQ levels and socioeconomic status did not make a difference. Thus, suggesting self-control as a key factor in promoting healthy aging. Researchers suggest that a greater focus should be placed on teaching children self-control skills so they have a greater quality of life.
Reference:
Leah S. Richmond-Rakerd et al. Childhood self-control forecasts the pace of midlife aging and preparedness for old age, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (2021). DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2010211118
