A prediction model for self-handicapping in Bojnourd University students: The role of compatible and incompatible components of perfectionism

Introduction: Self-handicapping is any action or choice of performance setting that enhances the opportunity to externalize failure and to internalize success. Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate the role of perfectionism and its various dimensions in predicting self-handicapping of Bojnourd university students. Method: The type of research was cross-sectional descriptive and a correlational type. The statistical population included undergraduate students of Bojnourd University in the academic year of 2013-2014. 200 people were selected by multistage cluster sampling and each of them answered to the Perfectionism Scale of Hill et al (2004) and the Self-Handicapping Scale of Jones and Rhodewalt (1982). Data were analyzed using Pearson correlation coefficient and multiple regression. SPSS v. 18 was also used in data analysis. Results: There was a significant positive and direct relationship between each of the eight dimensions of perfectionism and self-handicapping (P<0.05); In other words, with the increase of perfectionism, the use of self-handicapping strategies increases. None of the dimensions of perfectionism in the prediction model of self-handicapping were excluded from the regression and in the final model predicted 0.32 of the variance of self-handicapping (P<0.05). Conclusion: Perfectionism is a multidimensional construct that can affect students' self-handicapping. Therefore, interventions are needed to systematically manage the components of student perfectionism.