Self-discrepancy and elaboration of self-conceptions as factors influencing reactions to feedback

Previous research examined the predictions of the self-enhancement theory a nd the selfconsistency, theory regarding reactions to self-relevant feedbac k. In the present study two circumstances that are supposed to moderate sel f-enhancement and self-consistency motives have been examined, the elaborat ion of a self-conception and the discrepancy, between the actual self and a personal standard. One hundred and fourteen participants received either p ositive, consistent, or negative feedback regarding their results on a pers onality test. Affective and cognitive reactions to fictitious feedback were measured as dependent variables. In accordance with prior empirical eviden ce, affective reactions followed the self-enhancement theory and cognitive reactions Mere in line with the self-consistency theory. Moreover, affectiv e and cognitive reactions were influenced by the elaboration of a self-conc eption and the discrepancy between the actual self and a personal standard as predicted Regarding affective reactions, the predictions of the self-enh ancement theory were more clearly supported when self-conceptions were less elaborated or when people perceived a high self-discrepancy. Regarding cog nitive reactions, the predictions of the self-consistency theory were more clearly supported when self-conceptions were highly elaborated or when peop le perceived a low, self-discrepancy. Copyright (C) 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.