Final answer:
The statement is false; gaining control is more about using metacognition and self-reflection rather than just self-monitoring alone. Perceived control can lead to better health outcomes and reduced stress reactivity, highlighting the importance of believing in one's ability to influence health and wellbeing.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement is false. Self-monitoring indeed informs us about things that control us, but it's through the use of metacognition and reflections on our emotions where we can start to gain control. By understanding the sources of our emotions and applying strategies to manage those feelings effectively, we can tackle our stressors with greater confidence. The perception of control is a significant factor in how we deal with stress and how we manage our overall wellbeing. Higher levels of perceived control correlate with lower stress reactivity and better health outcomes. Those who believe they have control over their health are more likely to engage in behaviors that support good health and are at a lower risk of health issues like heart attacks and cardiovascular disease.
Albert Bandura's research suggests that having a strong sense of personal control can improve our mental and physical health, leading to greater psychological wellbeing. Therefore, self-monitoring combined with metacognition plays a crucial role in empowering individuals to manage their health and stress levels more effectively.