ABSTRACT
This chapter examines situational variables related to failure-avoidant behaviours and in particular, withdrawal of effort. Drawing on studies examining the egotism hypothesis mentioned in Chapter 4, it will become apparent that one key variable related to failure avoidance is anticipation of poor performance. Whether prior experience of failure is important in this regard remains in doubt. However it is clear that a further important requirement is threat to self-esteem. Two things are important here. First, the outcome must be attributable to the self. Second, the attribution must be relevant to the individual's self-esteem.
