Effortful control is a concept in psychology that refers to an individual's ability to regulate their emotions, thoughts, and behavior in order to achieve their goals. It involves being able to inhibit impulses, stay focused on tasks, and modulate emotional responses. Research in the area of effortful control has focused on understanding how this ability develops in children, how it is influenced by genetic and environmental factors, and how it relates to various outcomes such as academic achievement, social competence, and mental health. Some studies have also examined interventions aimed at improving effortful control in individuals who struggle with self-regulation. Overall, research on effortful control has shown that individuals who have higher levels of this ability tend to have better overall functioning and well-being, while those with lower levels may be more vulnerable to difficulties such as impulsivity, aggression, and anxiety.