Low trait self-control predicts self-handicapping.

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Social Psychology
• Personality Psychology

Background:

• Previous research identified ability uncertainty and self-presentational concerns as key drivers of self-handicapping.
• The role of dispositional self-control in self-handicapping has not been extensively explored.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between dispositional self-control and self-handicapping.
• To determine if low self-control predicts self-handicapping behaviors independently of other psychological factors.

Main Methods:

• Three studies were conducted with a total of 289 participants.
• Self-control was measured as a trait.
• Self-handicapping was assessed using trait measures, self-report, and behavioral observations across the three studies.

Main Results:

• Hierarchical regression analyses consistently showed that low trait self-control significantly predicted self-handicapping.
• This association remained significant even after controlling for self-esteem, self-doubt, social desirability, and gender.
• The findings were robust across trait, self-reported, and behavioral measures of self-handicapping.

Conclusions:

• Dispositional self-control is a significant predictor of self-handicapping.
• Individuals with lower self-control are more likely to engage in self-handicapping strategies.
• These findings add a crucial personality dimension to the understanding of self-handicapping.