The researchers say their results tie into the theory of "ego depletion," a controversial idea in psychology that willpower gets used up by effort.
The results suggest it might be best to take it easy after mental exertion.
"If you want to have a discussion with your partner and feel that you are mentally exhausted - don't," said Erica Ordali, the first author of the study from the IMT School for Advanced Studies Lucca in Italy. "Take your time. Do it in another day."
This story is from the November 12, 2024 edition of The Guardian.
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This story is from the November 12, 2024 edition of The Guardian.
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