Engaging in Less Protective Self-Presentation: The Effects of a Friend's Presence on the Socially Anxious |
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Authors: | Beth A. Pontari Ellen J. Glenn |
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Affiliation: | 1. Furman University beth.pontari@furman.edu;3. Northwestern University |
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Abstract: | To cope with their fear of negative evaluation, socially anxious people use protective self-presentation strategies. We hypothesized that the presence of a close friend (vs. being alone) would lead socially anxious people to engage in more acquisitive self-presentation tactics. Results supported the hypotheses. With a friend present versus not, socially anxious participants presented themselves more positively to and selected more self-disclosing topics to discuss with a stranger they believed they would meet face-to-face. Friendship strength moderated some of the effects. Results suggest that friends’ support may allow socially anxious people to satisfy safety needs while engaging in less protective self-presentation. |
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