Estrategias de self-handicapping en estudiantes universitarios. Diferencias entre cursos

Abstract

This paper analyzes possible statistical differences in behavioural and claimed self-handicapping strategies related to course factor. Cross-section ex post factum simple prospective study was used. The sample comprised a total of 691 students (86% women; Mage = 21.35; SD = 3.75) from University of A Coruña enrolled in first (54.8%) and third course (45.2%) of Educational Sciences (68.9%) and Health Sciences (31.1%). Results show that both behavioural and claimed self-handicapping strategies are significantly more used by students enrolled in third course of Educational Sciences and Health Sciences. Possible factors linked to learning environment that might promote self-handicapping are discussed. Moreover, psychological and educational guidance aimed at preventing academic self-handicapping is proposed.