Week02 L2 - Self and Identity

Self

Refers to the individual person from one’s own perspective.

Culture

Shapes how individuals understand and define themselves.

Individualistic concept of self

View of the self as distinct and separate from others and the environment.

Relational concept of self

View of the self as connected to others and the environment.

Jaime Bulatao

Filipino psychologist who studied the Filipino concept of the self.

Filipino concept of the self (Bulatao)

The self is individuated but not separated from others.

Bulatao’s egg analogy

Like eggs in a frying pan: yolks are distinct but whites are connected.

Identity

Set of qualities, beliefs, traits, appearances, statuses, and experiences that characterize a person or group.

Nature of identity

Contextual and fluid; changes depending on situation and time.

Identity as multi-faceted

Identity consists of multiple aspects (age, gender, religion, nationality, role, etc.).

Relational/comparative identity

Identity is shaped by similarities and differences with others.

Personal identity

Unique characteristics that distinguish one individual from others. (Appearance, body, memories, consciousness, experiences, behavior)

Social identity

Identity based on membership in social groups, and is socially constructed. (Expectations, social categories, aspects of yourself tied to categories)

Performative identity

Identity expressed through actions, behaviors, and practices. The act of “doing” or expressing one’s identity.

Identity salience

Aspect of identity that becomes most relevant in a given context. (Children expected to play, students expected to study)

Identity prominence

Aspect of identity that stands out even when one does not want it to.

Identity commitment

Degree of commitment to a particular identity despite identity being fluid.

Identity exploration

Process of exploring different identities before committing to one.

Social roles

Expectations placed on individuals by society.