Understanding the Self

Definition of the Self

• The self is defined as the sense of personal identity and individuality, as described by William James in 1890.

• William James conceptualized the self as having two aspects: the 'I' and the 'me'.

• The 'I' represents the thinking, acting, and feeling self, while the 'me' encompasses physical and psychological characteristics that define an individual.

• Carl Rogers also used the terms 'I' and 'me' in his person-centered therapy, emphasizing self-actualization and positive psychological functioning.

• Identity refers to personal characteristics, social roles, and affiliations, while self-concept pertains to how individuals perceive themselves.

Self-Schema and Identity Development

• Carl Rogers introduced the concept of self-schema, an organized system of knowledge about oneself that evolves with experiences and influences perception.

• Self-schema includes interests, work, age, physical characteristics, and other aspects that shape self-perception.

• Examples of self-schema beliefs include personality traits, physical attributes, career aspirations, and personal preferences.

• Self, identity, and self-concept are dynamic and evolve over time, influenced by past experiences, present circumstances, and future aspirations.

• Self-schema guides how individuals think, feel, and behave in various settings or situations.

Freud's Theory of the Self

• Sigmund Freud's Iceberg Model of the Mind illustrates the conscious ego, unconscious id, and moral superego.

• The id represents primal instincts and operates on the pleasure principle, seeking immediate gratification.

• The ego balances the id's demands with reality, following the reality principle to navigate social norms and consequences.

• The superego integrates societal values and morals, motivating socially responsible behavior through rewards and punishments.

• Freud's theory emphasizes the interplay between these three components in shaping personality and behavior.

Symbolic Interactionism and Social Comparison

Theory of Symbolic Interactionism

• Symbolic interactionism, associated with George Herbert Mead and Max Weber, views society as constructed through shared symbols and meanings.

• According to Mead, the self is developed through social interactions and influenced by societal norms and values.

• The theory highlights the social nature of identity formation and the importance of interpersonal relationships in shaping self-perception.

• Society plays a significant role in shaping individual identity and self-concept through language and shared symbols.

• Self and identity are products of social interactions and historical contexts.

Social Comparison and Self-Esteem

• Social comparison theory suggests that individuals learn about themselves by comparing their attributes with others.

• Downward social comparison involves comparing oneself with those perceived as less fortunate to boost self-esteem.

• Upward social comparison entails comparing oneself with those considered better off, which can motivate or lead to lower self-esteem.

• Social relationships and group activities influence self-esteem by providing reference points for self-evaluation.

• Excessive social comparison can lead to negative self-perception and impact self-esteem.

Self-Awareness and Personal Reflection

Types of Self-Awareness

• Self-awareness involves seeing oneself objectively through reflection and introspection.

• Private self refers to internal standards and personal thoughts, while public self pertains to the external image presented to others.

• Self-awareness can be positive or negative, influencing behavior and decision-making.

• Understanding the actual self, ideal self, and ought self helps individuals navigate self-perception and personal growth.

• Self-awareness aids in avoiding risky behaviors and promoting self-improvement.

Impact of Self-Esteem and Conclusion

• Self-esteem reflects an individual's positive or negative evaluation of themselves, influenced by social comparisons and self-awareness.

• High self-esteem correlates with positive outcomes but does not solely determine a healthy perspective of oneself.

• Social comparison can affect self-esteem, with downward comparisons boosting self-esteem and upward comparisons potentially lowering it.

• Excessive comparison can lead to negative self-perception and hinder personal growth.

• Self-awareness and self-reflection are essential for personal development and maintaining a balanced self-concept.