GEN002: Understanding the Self - Periodical Exam Review

Study Notes

Real Self: Represents an individual's true nature and identity.
Ideal Self: The aspirational version of oneself, often influenced by societal standards.
Self-Actualization: The process of realizing one's full potential through authentic living.
Carl Rogers' Theory: Emphasizes the importance of a judgment-free environment for self-exploration. Acceptance and empathy foster personal growth.
Congruence and Balance: Achieving alignment between real self and ideal self is crucial for personal fulfillment.

Individualistic Self: Prioritizes personal needs, desires, and independence typical of Western cultures, such as those in Europe and North America.
Collectivist Self: Focuses on group welfare over individual desires, common in Eastern cultures, prioritizing family and community harmony.

Body Image: Refers to one's perception of their own physical appearance.
Physical Self: Encompasses unique physical attributes including body shape and features.
Influence of Genetics: Determines biological traits like hair color, eye color, and height.
Cultural Norms: Standards of beauty shaped by historical events often affect body image and self-perception.

Material Self: Extends the physical self; possessions symbolize identity and personality.
Diderot Effect: New acquisitions prompt desires for additional related items, leading to a cycle of consumption.
Needs vs. Wants: Needs are essential for survival, whereas wants cater to comfort, pleasure, and social status.
Responsible Consumerism: Involves distinguishing between needs and wants and budgeting wisely.

Spiritual Self: Represents the inner essence or soul, transcending the physical body.
Spirituality's Influence: Guides behavior towards core values and compassion.
Hinduism: Views Atman (soul) as eternal and identical to Brahman (universal spirit).
Buddhism: Teaches Anatta (non-self) indicating that self is an illusion formed by changing elements.
Soul Concepts:
- Kararwa: Main soul, departs only after death.
- Karkarma: Second soul, may leave in fear; failure to return risks insanity.
- Aniwaas: Third soul, travels during sleep; loss upon waking can lead to insanity.
- Ar-aria: Fourth soul, liberated after death; visits the living.

Sexual Self: Involves understanding sexual growth and development.
Freud's Psychosexual Stages:
- Stages: Oral, Anal, Phallic, Latency, Genital.
- Erogenous Zones: Areas that, when stimulated, create sexual arousal.
Critique of Freud: The theory overlooks cultural and societal influences on sexuality.
Latency Stage: A period of reduced sexuality allowing children to focus on social development.
Puberty for Girls: Typically occurs between ages 8-12.