The Role of the Fear of Positive Evaluation in the Relationship Between Social Anxiety and the Pride Experience and Expression

There is a significant gap in research concerning the relationship between social anxiety and the expression of pride. This study examines the mediating role of fear of positive evaluation in the relationship between social anxiety and both the tendency to express pride and the momentary experience of authentic and hubristic pride. A sample of 703 first-year undergraduate students from Croatia completed a survey assessing social anxiety, fear of positive evaluation, experience of authentic and hubristic pride and expression of pride. Fear of positive evaluation mediated the link between social anxiety and the tendency to express pride. Additionally, it also mediated the relationship between social anxiety and both authentic and hubristic pride. The results are consistent with evolutionary theories that explain the importance of social hierarchy in shaping the emotional experiences of socially anxious individuals. Findings highlight the significant role of fear of positive evaluation in determining how socially anxious individuals experience and express pride, emphasizing the need for further research on its effects in domains of social status and psychological well-being.