THE EFFECT OF SELF-ENHANCEMENT EXPECTATIO N ON SELECTION OF COMPARISONS AS A SELF-ASSESSMENT STRATEGY

Selection of others for comparison influences the outcome of self-asse ssment. The present study attempted to examine the effect of expectati on for self-enhancement on strategic selection of comparisons. A quest ionnaire study was conducted with 169 undergraduates, who responded to four sets of questions. First, they listed ten abilities each for thr ee areas that desired to acquire in high-level, in average-level, and undesired to acquire. Then, they evaluated themselves in comparison wi th others on the thirty abilities, and indicated whom they chose as co mparisons. Finally, perceived probabilities were assessed of acquiring each ability. Results showed that selection of superior others was mo re when evaluated abilities were desired to acquire in high-level and perceived probability high than otherwise. This suggested that compari son with superior others was made if expectation for self-enhancement was high. The expectation therefore affects the likelihood of self-ass essment behavior, and self-assessment is a necessary component of futu re self-enhancement.