Predictors of Shyness: A Test of Variables Associated With Self-Presentational Models

This study assessed the impact of several variables central to self-presentation theories on self-reported shyness. Data were collected from 286 Canadian college students who completed measures of shyness, expectations of rejection, interpersonal competence, and perfectionism. The sample was randomly divided in half to allow for cross-validation. Consistent with hypotheses, shyness was predicted by expectations of rejection and interpersonal competence for the initial sample. However, contrary to self-presentation theories, shyness was not predicted by high self-standards nor by perceptions that others held high expectations of the self. These findings were replicated in the cross-validation sample. Results partially support self-presentation theories of shyness and suggest that while interpersonal competence and fear of rejection are central to shyness, the shy do not necessarily hold unrealistically high standards for themselves or view others as expecting perfection from them.