Abstract
Two laboratory experiments were conducted to assess effects of self-handicapping on receivers' perceptions related to the ability of self-handicapper and on receivers' attraction for self-handicapper. Two independent variables were manipulated in a 2×2 factorial design: (1) acquired self-handicapping (present vs. absent) and (2) claimed self-handicapping (present vs. absent). The results for acquired self-handicapping were as follows; it reduced the perceived performance level of the self-handicapper but it had no effect on the perception of the ability of the sdlf-handicapper and on the attraction for the self-handicapper. In addition, the results for claimed self-handicapping were as follows; it reduced the attraction for the self-handicapper but it had no effect on the perceptions related to the ability of the self-handicapper. These results are dicussed as positive and negative effects which self-handicapping as an impression management strategy has.
