Why Do You Sabotage Yourself Before a Big Test? Self-Handicapping

The video explores self-handicapping, a behavior where individuals create excuses to protect themselves from failure. It distinguishes between behavioral and claimed self-handicapping and discusses research findings, including factors like self-esteem and time of day that influence this behavior. The video also covers societal judgments of self-handicapping and suggests strategies to mitigate it, such as focusing on skill mastery and self-affirmation.

What is the primary reason people engage in self-handicapping behaviors?

• To improve their skills

• To have fun

• To protect themselves from failure

• To gain attention

Which type of self-handicapping involves actively doing things that hurt your chances of success?

• Emotional self-handicapping

• Cognitive self-handicapping

• Behavioral self-handicapping

• Claimed self-handicapping

In the University of Wisconsin-Madison study, how did high self-handicappers behave when they thought they were being evaluated?

• They practiced more

• They practiced less

• They avoided the task

• They performed better

Which group of people is more likely to engage in self-handicapping?

• People who are morning persons

• People who are highly motivated

• People with low self-efficacy

• People with high self-esteem

What is a common time for people to behaviorally self-handicap?

• In the morning

• When they are alone

• When they are tired

• During their peak performance time

What strategy can help reduce self-handicapping according to the 2011 study?

• Focusing on skill mastery

• Setting higher goals

• Avoiding competition

• Practicing more

How can self-affirmation help in reducing self-handicapping?

• By focusing on personal strengths

• By ignoring past failures

• By setting lower expectations

• By avoiding difficult tasks