Alex has been pigging out and doesn't feel particularly fit. He now has doubts about qualifying in rowing at the upcoming nationals. Just before the event he tells his mate that he hasn't been feeling focussed recently. Alex's comments are a case of:

Question

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Alex's comments about not feeling focused and his behavior of overeating can be seen as self-handicapping. This is because he is providing an excuse in advance for a potential failure, which can protect his self-esteem by attributing failure to external factors rather than lack of ability.

Alex Has Been Pigging Out and Doesn't Feel Particularly Fit