Ch2

The Self

• The self is a complex and multi-faceted process.
• We develop a sense of self based on interactions with others.
• Interactions with others shape both positive and negative self-images.
• Our interactions with others help us experience who we are.

Self-concept Components

• The self-concept is comprised of:
  • Attitudes (likes and dislikes)
  • Beliefs (true and false)
  • Values (good and bad, right and wrong)

Self-esteem

• Self-esteem is our perception of our own worth.

Particular Others

• Particular others are those individuals who have a significant impact on our self-concept.
• Examples of particular others include family members and peers.

Self-Fulfilling Prophecy

• This occurs when we accept and act in accordance with others' expectations or judgments about us.
• It can be a positive or negative force.

Social Comparisons

• We naturally compare ourselves to others.
• It is healthy to make realistic comparisons.

Direct Definitions

• These are labels that directly define us, either positively or negatively.

Identity Scripts

• Identity scripts are rules for living and our identity.

Reflected Appraisals

• This is our perception of how others view us.
• We often reflect what we think others think of us.

Attachment Styles

• Attachment styles are influenced by communication patterns experienced with caregivers.
• They are not permanent and can change.
• They don't determine the outcome of our relationships. They are part of a complex interpersonal system.
• Socioeconomic status can influence attachment styles.

Secure Attachment Style

• This is the most positive style.
• It develops when a caregiver is consistently loving and attentive.
• Securely attached adults are typically outgoing, affectionate, and comfortable with the ups and downs of relationships. They are confident in relationships and feel comfortable being single.
• Two-thirds of children in middle-class families develop a secure attachment style. Children from poorer families are less likely to develop this style.

The Generalized Other

• The generalized other refers to the views held by society that influence our identities.
• Society's expectations and norms are learned through interactions with others, social institutions, and media.
• Cultural Values:
  • Family members, schools, government, religion, and media all contribute to the internalization of cultural values.
• Western Societies:
  • Emphasize the role of race, sex and gender, sexual orientation and gender identity, and socioeconomic class in shaping identity.
  • Intersectionality highlights the interconnectedness of these social categories, leading to unique challenges for those with multiple marginalized identities.
• Social Movements:
  • Growing self-empowerment exists in marginalized groups through social movements, pride events, and legal battles.
  • This empowerment is a result of individuals embracing their identities and advocating for self-development, self-concept, and self-esteem.

Explore the intricacies of self, self-concept, and self-esteem in this quiz. Understand how our interactions with particular others influence our self-image, beliefs, values, and perceptions of worth. Test your knowledge on social comparisons and the self-fulfilling prophecy.