Strategic Engagement Regulation: an Integration of Self-enhancement and Engagement

INFORMATION TO ALL USERS The quality of this reproduction is dependent upon the quality of the copy submitted. In the unlikely event that the author did not send a complete manuscript and there are missing pages, these will be noted. Also, if material had to be removed, a note will indicate the deletion. I certify that I have read this dissertation and that in my opinion it meets the academic and professional standard required by the University as a dissertation for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy. Professor in charge of dissertation I certify that I have read this dissertation and that in my opinion it meets the academic and professional standard required by the University as a dissertation for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy. I certify that I have read this dissertation and that in my opinion it meets the academic and professional standard required by the University as a dissertation for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy. I certify that I have read this dissertation and that in my opinion it meets the academic and professional standard required by the University as a dissertation for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy. I certify that I have read this dissertation and that in my opinion it meets the academic and professional standard required by the University as a dissertation for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy. iv ACKNOWLEDGMENTS Thank you to my creative, kind, and generous advisor, Dr. James Jones. James first ignited my interest in social psychology over 10 years ago when I was a student in his Social Psychology and Black Psychology courses. Over the past decade, James has challenged me to develop my often jumbled ideas into linear arguments. He has made me a better theorist, empiricist, writer, and speaker, all while giving me the freedom to explore my curiosity. I think it is this freedom that has made my graduate career so much fun. In fact, I actually disagree with Dr. Sam Gaertner, who told me during my graduate interview that graduate school is " the worst 5 years of your life. " I appreciate everything Dr. Chad Forbes has given me. Chad has taught me the value of cross-disciplinary research, and trained me in methods that are both at the frontier of social neuroscience and relevant to my research questions. I hope to develop my EEG skills throughout my career. I also appreciate …