Self-Awareness and the Johari Window

A set of practice flashcards covering self-awareness and the Johari Window concepts from the lecture notes.

What is self-awareness?

The ability to monitor our inner world of thoughts and feelings; awareness of one's own personality or individuality; not the same as consciousness.

How did Debbie Ford define self-awareness?

The ability to take an honest look at your life without attachment to it being right or wrong.

What is the Johari Window?

A technique developed by John Luft and Harry Ingham to help people understand their relationship with themselves and others, and to improve self-awareness and communication in a group.

Who developed the Johari Window and when?

American psychologists Joseph Luft and Harry Ingham in 1955; the name comes from joining their first names.

What are the four quadrants of the Johari Window?

Open/Public Area (known to self and known to others); Blind Area (known to others, not known to self); Hidden/Private Area (known to self, not known to others); Unknown/Potential Area (unknown to both).

What is the Open/Public Area?

Traits that are known to both the individual and others; visible to the group; expands as information is shared.

What is the Blind Area?

Traits readily apparent to others but not known by the individual.

What is the Hidden/Private Area?

Traits known to the individual but hidden from others; information the person may choose not to reveal.

What is the Unknown/Potential Area?

Traits unknown to both self and others; potential for new awareness; can move into the Open through new experiences; linked to self-actualization.

How is the Johari Window described in terms of its panes and movement?

The lines dividing the four panes act like window shades that move as interaction progresses.

How is the Johari Window typically used in an exercise?

Participants pick adjectives describing themselves; peers pick adjectives describing the subject; adjectives are placed into a 2x2 grid to reveal different awareness aspects.

What is the Johari Window also known as in model terms?

A feedback/disclosure model of self-awareness.

What is self-disclosure?

The process of revealing information from the Hidden quadrant to the Open quadrant, enlarging the Open area.

What is the Open quadrant also called?

Public Area; traits known to both the self and others.

What is the purpose of the Johari Window in a group?

To improve self-awareness and personal development and to enhance communication among group members.

How does Maslow’s self-actualization relate to the Johari Window?

Moving previously unknown information into the Open quadrant is likened to self-actualization.

What are the two paths of self-awareness?

Self-discovery (internal reflection) and feedback/disclosure from others.

What is the difference between self-awareness and consciousness?

Self-awareness is awareness of one’s own personality or traits; consciousness is awareness of environment, body, and lifestyle; self-awareness is recognizing that awareness.