SELF-HANDICAPPING AND SELF-ESTEEM

The purpose of this investigation was to examine the potential mediati ng effect of self-esteem on the relationship between the trait of self -handicapping and impediments to competitive performance (potential se lf-handicaps). Competitive male golfers (N = 109) completed the Self-h andicapping Scale (Jones & Rhodewalt, 1982), the Rosenberg Self-esteem Scale (Rosenberg, 1982) and listed events that were disruptive to pre paration for their next golf tournament. Results showed that self-este em served as a potent negative mediator. These findings provide suppor t for the suggestion that one reason individuals with a disposition to self-handicap perceive more impediments to performance (potential sel f-handicaps) is because they have less self-esteem. Recommendations fo r future research are discussed.