On the self-protective nature of inconsistency-negativity management: using the person memory paradigm to examine self-referent memory

J Pers Soc Psychol. 2000 Dec;79(6):906-22. doi: 10.1037//0022-3514.79.6.906.

Abstract

How do individuals remember feedback that is inconsistent or negative? According to the inconsistency-negativity resolution model, individuals are motivated to reduce uncertainty and resolve inconsistency even when threat to self is potential. They more deeply process and better remember negative self- than other-referent information. According to the inconsistency-negativity neglect model, individuals are motivated to protect the self against threat. They engage in more shallow processing and remember less negative self- than other-referent information. Participants read and recalled either self- or other-referent mixed-valence information. The neglect model was supported in personality and minimal feedback settings. A chronometric exploration of processing mechanisms and the ruling out of a retrieval interference account clarified aspects of the model. Individuals are hypersensitive to threat potential: They will protect the self against even hypothetical threat.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Defense Mechanisms*
  • Feedback*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Individuality
  • Internal-External Control
  • Male
  • Mental Recall*
  • Personality
  • Self Concept*
  • Social Behavior
  • Social Perception