Question

In a short paragraph, describe the basic idea underlying self-worth theory. In a second paragraph, explain what self-handicapping is and the role it plays with regard to self-worth. To illustrate your discussion, describe two different kinds of self-handicapping that might occur.

Answer 1

self worth theory assumes that a person is potential enough to reach self actualisation level. in our society the achievement are used to identify the worthof a person. achievement and ability are the two factors which are dominant in human beings as per this theory. incometency leads to worthlessness. ability, self worth, effort and performance are the elements of this theory and are arranged casually in it. it states that sense of self worth is multifaceted. this can be seen by thefact that self worth is obtained by achieving things by performance but this is not the only way as human beings can also experience self worth if they percieve their efforts and abilities in a positive manner. the model shows direct and indirect influences of perceptionsof ability and effort on slef worth. perception of high ability can imply worthiness in the absence of achievements. achievement and ability are major causes of self esteem. effort directly effects self worth. strong efforts are rewarded and are recognised as successful performance. high effort and failure are combined leading to low ability which triggers humiliation and shame.

self handicap is a way by which people avoid efforts so as to keep potential failures away. according to Edward E. Jones and teven Berglas, self handicap obstacles created by individuals for preventing failure. it can also be used to enhance self worth by managing impressions of others.

there are 2 types of self handicap-

1. behavioral - in this poeple create actual obstacles. eg- because of stress of passing in a test the student drinks on the previous night so that failing the test can be blamed on hangover.
2. claimed self handicaps- in this people justify their failures. and after failing the excuses are given as reasons. eg- declaring that one is experiencing physical symptoms.