Costs of Self‐Handicapping

Abstract Four studies examined the relation of trait self‐handicapping with health‐related measures. Study 1 showed that, over time, self‐handicapping and maladjustment reinforce each other. Study 2 showed that self‐handicappers reported a loss in competence satisfaction which, in turn, mediated the relation of self‐handicapping with negative mood. Study 3 found that, over time, self‐handicappers report an increase in substance use. Study 4 showed that self‐handicappers reported a loss in intrinsic motivation for their jobs. It was suggested that people with unstable (or contingent) self‐esteem use self‐handicapping to bolster a fragile self‐concept.