Self-reported versus behavioral self-handicapping: empirical evidence for a theoretical distinction.

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Social Psychology
• Self-Handicapping Theory

Background:

• Self-handicapping is a strategy individuals use to protect their self-esteem.
• Two primary forms of self-handicapping are behavioral (e.g., not practicing) and self-reported (e.g., claiming high stress).

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate how individuals choose between behavioral and self-reported self-handicapping options.
• To examine the influence of perceived effects of stress and practice on test performance on this choice.

Main Methods:

• Participants (Ss) anticipated a diagnostic intellectual ability test.
• Participants received different instructions on how stress and practice affect test scores.
• Participants were offered opportunities for behavioral (withdrawing practice) and self-reported (reporting stress) handicaps.

Main Results:

• High self-handicapping individuals of both sexes exhibited self-reported handicapping.
• Only high self-handicapping men engaged in behavioral self-handicapping.
• When both options were available, both men and women preferred self-reported handicaps over behavioral ones.

Conclusions:

• Self-reported handicaps are a preferred strategy over behavioral ones, especially when both are available.
• Gender differences exist in the manifestation of behavioral self-handicapping.
• This preference may be linked to maintaining self-esteem while providing an excuse for potential failure.