The cognitive, neural, and social aspects of regulatory mode and its implications on well-being and decision-making

Regulatory mode theory distinguishes between two components, or modes, of effective self-regulation: locomotion and assessment. Locomotion refers to psychological state-to-state movement. Assessment refers to goal evaluation and means of goal achievement. The primary aim of this review is to synthesize the cognitive, neural, and social aspects and underpinnings of regulatory mode theory. This review also explores implications of regulatory mode theory on well-being and decision-making within and among groups and individuals. With an integrative research approach on the mechanisms and implications of regulatory mode theory across multiple domains and levels of analysis, we suggest new research directions by exposing lapses in the literature and by providing a foundation for novel explorations of regulatory mode theory.