People may distance themselves from unsuccessful,low-status others in a process known as
A) cutting off reflected failure.
B) contamination containment.
C) reputation preservation.
D) self-handicapping.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Cutting off reflected failure refers to the tendency to distance oneself from individuals or groups that are unsuccessful or low status in an effort to maintain one's own social status and reputation. This process is often seen in individuals who strongly identify with their social group or community, and who fear that association with unsuccessful others may reflect poorly on themselves. Contamination containment refers to a similar process, but is typically used in situations involving threats to physical health or safety, such as disease outbreaks or chemical spills. Reputation preservation and self-handicapping may also involve efforts to maintain social status, but are not specific to the process of distancing oneself from low-status others.

People May Distance Themselves from Unsuccessful,low-Status Others in a Process