Abstract vs Concrete Thinking and Self-Control

Abstract and concrete thinking can shape self-control and delay of gratification. Self-control often means choosing a long-term reward instead of a short-term one, such as skipping a second serving of ice cream, studying instead of going to a party, or saving money instead of spending it right away.

Objects and events can be mentally represented at multiple levels of abstractness and distance in what are known as construal levels.

For instance, consider children playing catch in a park. Those who observe the kids from afar and see the big picture of them having fun, display an abstract level of interpretation?high construal.

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