This theory is dependent on a student's ability to self-evaluate their actions and the resulting outcomes, and being able to determine how their goals align with where they’re at. Students must be able to determine a plan of action to get to their goals and have the ability to persevere through their difficulties in the context of their education. The actions of the student are determined by their mindset in relation to how their environment and innate abilities shape themselves as a learner. Self-Regulation is not an innate ability and the advantages of which are best seen when it is practiced with the supervision of an adult in their life.

The self-regulation theory is especially relevant during transitions in our lives. For example, the transition from high school to post-secondary endeavors, including joining the workforce or going to college. This transition requires excellent self-regulation because students are going from high school --which is a very structured environment where they have teachers to guide them through school and life-- to an environment with much less structure and fewer people who are responsible for keeping them accountable. Without the skills to regulate their actions and emotions and the resilience to get through difficult times, people may struggle with these transitions leading to dropouts and leaving the workforce.