Larger than Self: The Influence of Interpersonal Goals on Self-regulation and Pro-group Behaviors
Date Issued
2011
Date
2011
Author(s)
Lin, Hsua-Hsu
Abstract
Self-esteem is a well-known construct in western society. It is related to individual achievement and psychological adjustment. However, previous studies found enhancing self-esteem would result in focusing on self, and then do harm to self regulation and interpersonal relationship. J. Crocker proposed individuals adopting ecosystem perspective would see people as interconnected and avoid negative effects of pursuing self-image. As a result, she proposed two interpersonal goals: compassionate goal and self-image goal. Previous studies showed that two interpersonal goals predicted psychological adjustment and relationship quality distinctively. Thus, study 1 recruited 96 participants for testing the psychometric properties of Chinese version of interpersonal goal measure. Results indicated compassionate goal predicted psychological adjustment positively, and self-image goal did not predict psychological adjustment. Study 2 recruited 209 participants to examine how interpersonal goals influence self-regulation. Results revealed that compassionate goal predicted constructive self-criticism, and self-image goal predicted emotional self-criticism. Study 3 used field study and group evaluation to examine the correlation between interpersonal goals and pro-group behavior. About partner effect, compassionate goal predicted partners’ relationship need satisfactory; self-image goal moderated this effect. About actor effect, compassionate goal predicted individuals’ received help and relationship need satisfactory. In sum, although compassionate goal focuses on interpersonal level, it enhances individuals’ psychological adjustments. Besides, compassionate goal benefits individuals to consider each other and form a positive path among themselves and others. Possible theoretical and practical applications of the research findings were discussed.
Subjects
interpersonal goal
compassionate goal
self-image goal
self-regulation
pro-group behavior
Type
thesis
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