Mental Fatigue: The Hidden Trigger for Aggression and Emotional Instability

A study published in PNAS reveals that prolonged mental fatigue can lead to brain activity similar to sleep in the frontal cortex, resulting in increased aggression and reduced cooperation. This supports the concept of 'ego depletion,' where self-control diminishes with use, affecting decision-making and social interactions. The research highlights the importance of rest in maintaining self-control and suggests that mental exhaustion can lead to decisions contrary to one's interests, with implications for economic and legal contexts.