Editors Alicke (psychology, Ohio U.) and Sedikides (self & identity, U. of Southampton, UK) offer a historical overview and conceptual framework for the subjects announced in the title--subjects that have received a burst of new attention in recent years. Following are 22 chapters discussing self-enhancement and self protection in the context of the broad themes of neurocognitive bases; self-construal; perceptual, judgmental, and memory processes; interpersonal relational and group contexts; developmental, clinical health, personality, and cultural contexts; and boundary conditions and methodological issues. The handbook presents a broad spectrum of study for students and professionals seeking an understanding of research concerning how and why people exaggerate their strengths, and how and why people protect themselves against threatening feedback. Annotation ©2011 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)