ABSTRACT
In this chapter we describe research on defensive conviction as a reaction to personal uncertainty and other poignant self-threats. We argue that uncertainty and self-threats are aversive because they block important personal goals, and that some people cope by exaggerating conviction about alternative goals and ideals. Goal-related, neuropsychological mechanisms are suggested for how such seemingly compensatory conviction can serve as a form of emotion regulation: Approaching a compelling goal or ideal may inhibit the distress that ensues when another meaningful goal is blocked. This mechanism has been proposed in recent articles (McGregor, 2006a, 2006b; McGregor, Gailliot, Vasquez, & Nash, 2007), but here we delve into it further and discuss some unpublished supporting data. We also highlight the implications of defensive conviction for interpersonal relationships, which have not been discussed elsewhere. People often pursue relationships as goals and thus relationships may be a source of conviction after threat. Alternatively, relationships may suffer if conviction is focused on domains that are not shared with relationship partners.
