Chapter-3.1-The-Physical-Self

The Physical Self

  • Definition: The physical self refers to the tangible aspect of an individual that can be observed, encompassing the body as a source of sensation and a foundation of personality.

Human Development

  • Definition: The scientific study of changes that occur in humans from conception to death.

  • Key Factors Influencing Development:

    • Heredity (Nature): Genetic factors and hereditary traits that affect physical appearance and personality characteristics.

    • Environment (Nurture): External factors including childhood experiences, the upbringing environment, social relationships, and surrounding culture that shape personality traits and physical self-perception.

The Nature of Beauty

  • Subjectivity vs. Objectivity:

    • Objective Views:

      • St. Augustine posed queries about the essence of beauty and pleasure.

      • Plato related beauty to love and desire.

      • Aristotle emphasized order, symmetry, and definiteness in beauty, comparable to mathematical sciences.

    • Subjective Views:

      • David Hume believed beauty exists in the observer's mind, not in objects themselves.

      • Immanuel Kant noted that aesthetic judgment is not cognitive or logical.

      • Francis Hutcheson argued beauty perception is reliant on both external and internal senses.

Physiognomy

  • Definition: The assessment of a person's outer appearance, particularly the face, as a reflection of character and personality.

  • Beliefs in China:

    • Faces serve as an autobiography, revealing destiny or fate according to traditional beliefs.

    • Influences from the five-element theory connecting seasons, colors, shapes, sounds, and behaviors to personality traits.

Temperament Types

  • Temperaments from the Four Humors Theory (Hippocrates and Galen):

    1. Sanguine:

      • Qualities: Outgoing, cheerful, adventurous.

      • Strengths: Open and positive.

      • Weaknesses: Disorganized and talkative.

    2. Choleric:

      • Qualities: Goal-oriented, analytical.

      • Strengths: Direct and strong.

      • Weaknesses: Argumentative and competitive.

    3. Melancholic:

      • Qualities: Thoughtful, introverted.

      • Strengths: Creative and organized.

      • Weaknesses: Perfectionist and negative-focused.

    4. Phlegmatic:

      • Qualities: Relaxed, easy-going.

      • Strengths: Loyal and accommodating.

      • Weaknesses: Indecisive and overly sensitive.

Body-Type Theory (Sheldon, 1942)

  • Overview: Examines how body shape correlates with personality traits.

  • Types:

    1. Ectomorph: Thin and solitary, introverts.

    2. Endomorph: Rounded and relaxed, enjoy socializing.

    3. Mesomorph: Muscular but potentially aggressive, linked to criminal behavior.

Impact of Culture on Body Image

  • Dimensions:

    • Internal: Personal perceptions and feelings about one’s body.

    • External: Societal views on physical appearance impacting self-esteem and body image.

Standards of Beauty Throughout History

  • Egyptian Art: Preference for slim women with particular body characteristics.

  • Medieval Views: Curvy women were considered beautiful.

  • Attractiveness today: Generally aligned with clean skin, well-proportioned figures, and symmetrical faces linked to health and genetics.

Building a Strong, Positive Body Image

  • Strategies:

    • Emphasize health over weight.

    • Engage in physical activities for enjoyment.

    • Surround oneself with encouraging individuals.

    • Challenge societal beauty standards and understand size prejudice's role in discrimination.