An integrative framework of conflict and control

Trends Cogn Sci. 2024 Aug;28(8):757-768. doi: 10.1016/j.tics.2024.07.002.

Abstract

People regularly encounter various types of conflict. Here, we ask if, and, if so, how, different types of conflict, from lab-based Stroop conflicts to everyday-life self-control or moral conflicts, are related to one other. We present a framework that assumes that action-goal representations are hierarchically organized, ranging from concrete actions to abstract goals. The framework's key assumption is that conflicts involving more abstract goals (e.g., self-control/moral conflict) are embedded in a more complex action space; thus, to resolve such conflicts, people need to consider more associated goals and actions. We discuss how differences in complexity impact conflict resolution mechanisms and the costs/benefits of resolving conflicts. Altogether, we offer a new way to conceptualize and analyze conflict regulation across different domains.

Keywords: cognitive control; complexity; conflict; conflict resolution; moral decision making; self-control.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Conflict, Psychological*
  • Executive Function / physiology
  • Goals
  • Humans
  • Morals
  • Self-Control