The Material Self: Identity and Possessions

What is a primary reason possessions are important for adolescents?

Possessions have no significance to older adults in terms of memory and legacy.

How do adolescents use possessions to differentiate themselves from their parents?

In older adults, possessions serve as vessels of __________ and sources of comfort.

Match the following age groups with their relationship to possessions:

According to Russell Belk, what do objects become in relation to ourselves?

Materialism is directly related to higher self-esteem.

What are the three ways Sartre noted through which we connect with objects?

According to Belk, the first stage in the development of the material self is when the infant distinguishes self from _______.

Match the following concepts with their definitions:

What is said to be inversely related to materialism?

The connection of the self to the material world remains static throughout a person's life.

What does investing time to study something lead to in terms of the material self?

The Material Self

Objects in daily use reflect one's individuality.
Possessions connect the self to one's identity.
Researchers like William James and Jean-Paul Sartre, and Russell Belk studied how objects become extensions of identity.
Tools, weapons, uniforms, and clothing items are examples of how possessions extend identity.
A tool doubles strength, a weapon extends reach, a uniform shows group affiliation, and a t-shirt can recall travels.
Sartre identified three ways to connect with objects:
- Controlling an object (like riding a bike or training a dog).
- Creating or buying an object.
- Knowing about an object to show interest.
Materialism is linked to the belief that material possessions define happiness and success.
Materialism is inversely related to self-esteem, meaning it might be used to compensate for low self-esteem or lacking personal satisfaction.
The connection with the material world changes throughout life.
Belk (1988) proposed four stages in this development:
- Infants distinguish themselves from the environment.
- Infants distinguish themselves from others.
- Adolescents and adults use possessions to manage their identities.
- Older people view possessions as continuity and preparation for death.
Adolescent attachment to objects is increasingly related to how others perceive them, especially peers.
Teens may also value items to demonstrate difference from their parents.
Young people value possessions due to:
- Emotional attachment
- Social meaning ("ability to attract people")
- Personal association
Adult needs and means change, so their interests in objects also change.
Older age associates possessions with memory, comfort, achievement, and legacy.

Explore the concept of the material self and how objects in daily use shape our individuality and identity. This quiz delves into the theories proposed by researchers like William James and Jean-Paul Sartre, examining the connections between materialism, self-esteem, and personal identity. Test your understanding of how possessions extend the self and influence our lives.