Temptation

Eve Tempted by the Serpent by William Blake, 1799-1800 (painted)
Capital representing scenes from the Book of Genesis: temptation of Adam and Eve, Musée de Cluny.
Temptation, by William-Adolphe Bouguereau.

Temptation is a desire to engage in short-term urges for enjoyment that threatens long-term goals.[1] In the context of some religions, temptation is the inclination to sin. Temptation also describes the coaxing or inducing a person into committing such an act, by manipulation or otherwise of curiosity, desire or fear of loss something important to a person.

In the context of self-control and ego depletion, temptation is described as an immediate, pleasurable urge and/or impulse that disrupts an individual's ability to wait for the long-term goals, in which that individual hopes to attain.[1]

More informally, temptation may be used to mean "the state of being attracted and enticed" without anything to do with moral, ethical, or ideological valuation; for example, one may say that a piece of food looks "tempting" even though eating it would result in no negative consequences.

Research suggests that there are paradoxical effects associated with temptation.[1] Implicit in all the forms in which temptation can present itself there is a set of options that may facilitate high moral standards in decision-making.

  • Weak or subtle temptations, in comparison to strong or obvious temptations, can lead to a greater loss of self-control.
  • supported research states that "available temptations are less valuable and less tempting".[1]

Temptations can have effects on long-term goal attainment, it has been found that individuals who experienced temptation and the effects of it found there were benefits to their experiences.[1]

  1. ^ a b c d e Webb, J.R. (Sep 2014). Incorporating Spirituality into Psychology of temptation: Conceptualization, measurement, and clinical implications. Spirituality in Clinical Practice. 1.3. PP: 231-241