“Rat Race” or “Lying Flat”? The effect of competition stress on psychological compensation

Subjects: Psychology >> Management Psychology submitted time 2024-04-02

Wang Wangshuai Yi Yanxi Luo Zhiwei Li Jie

Abstract： In the crucible of competition stress, individuals have chosen two diametrically opposite compensation strategies, such that some have chosen “Rat Race”, while others have chosen “Lying Flat”. To illustrate this seemingly contradictory choice, this research distinguishes the dimensional attributes of competition stress. Based on the theory of psychological compensation, we then explore individuals’ compensation strategies when faced with different types of competition stress. Specifically, competition stress is a multidimensional concept, including competition result stress and competition process stress. Among them, competition result stress threatens self-esteem, prompting fluid compensation, which is termed the “Rat Race” effect. In contrast, competition process stress menaces well-being, spurring escapism compensation, which is termed the “Lying Flat” effect. This research will effectively add to the literature on competition stress, psychological compensation, self-esteem, and well-being.

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