Volitional problems in carrying through a difficult decision

Abstract Decisions are important in regulation of action but are often insufficient in explaining behavior exhibited by people facing problematic choices. In addition, relapses to non-preferred alternatives are common in difficult situations. Studies showing relapses preceded by emotional stress and twisted reasoning are reviewed in this paper. Techniques for fighting temptations to leave the chosen alternative are discussed. The findings are interpreted by a concept of mental energy, suggested to be measured by mood scales of activation and tension. In regulating action, wishes and images may be more important than values, the latter perhaps being used chiefly to justify decisions rather than for actually generating them. Finally, implications for decision analysis are discussed.