the self

Self concept

The overall idea of who we are, including traits, values, and social identities.

Self awareness

The ability to see oneself as a distinct individual and evaluate one’s actions.

Introspection

Looking inward to examine one’s own thoughts and feelings.

Self perception theory

We infer our attitudes by observing our own behavior when internal cues are weak.

Example of self perception

Smiling makes you infer you’re happy because you notice your behavior.

Social comparison theory

Evaluating oneself by comparing to others.

Upward social comparison

Comparing to someone better off to motivate improvement.

Downward social comparison

Comparing to someone worse off to boost self

Self esteem

The overall positive or negative evaluation of the self.

Self serving bias

The tendency to attribute success to internal factors and failure to external ones.

Impression management

Efforts to control how others perceive us.

Self handicapping

Creating excuses for potential failure to protect self

Example of self handicapping

Not studying so failure can be blamed on lack of effort, not ability.

Independent self construal

Defining oneself by internal traits (common in Western cultures).

Interdependent self construal

Defining oneself by relationships and group membership (common in collectivist cultures).

Self regulation

The ability to control thoughts, emotions, and behaviors to reach goals.

Looking glass self

Developing self

Self discrepancy theory

Discomfort arises when actual self differs from ideal or ought selves.

Self complexity

Having multiple, distinct aspects of self, which protects against stress.

The spotlight effect

Overestimating how much others notice or judge us.

Cultural impact on self concept

Individualistic cultures emphasize uniqueness; collectivist emphasize belonging.