Understanding the Social Self and Identity

A theory that says our self-identity is formed through social interactions. Our identity isn't fixed, it changes with how we interact with others.

Our self-image is influenced by how we think others see us. It's like a social mirror showing us what we think others think of us.

Two parts of the self: "I" is our spontaneous, true self; "Me" is the self created from societal expectations. They shape our self-concept.

How we feel about ourselves

Infants learn to trust their caregivers and the world based on whether their needs are met.

Toddlers develop independence through choices and will, leading to confidence or shame and doubt.

Preschoolers take initiative and pursue goals, feeling purpose or guilt when restricted.

School-aged children strive for competence in academics and social skills.

Adolescents explore beliefs and values to form a sense of self, or experience confusion.

Young adults seek meaningful relationships, facing isolation when relationships are lacking.

Middle-aged adults strive to contribute to society, leading to a sense of purpose or stagnation.

Older adults reflect on their lives, feeling integrity or despair over regrets.

The aspects of the self that are shaped by social interactions and perceptions.

Part of the social self; how we perceive and understand ourselves within a social context.

Our overall sense of identity, formed by beliefs and perceptions about ourselves, including traits, values, and attributes.

The unique characteristics that define an individual, including values, beliefs, and personality traits.

The part of our identity connected to group memberships, like nationality, religion, or profession.

Mental structures holding our knowledge and beliefs about ourselves, influencing how we process information and react to others.

How much we value and respect ourselves; an evaluation of self-worth.

Evaluating ourselves by comparing our abilities, opinions, and attributes to others.

Positive or negative reactions from others that shape our self-esteem.

How we choose to present ourselves to others to create a specific impression.

Comparing ourselves to those perceived as better or more successful.

The public self we present, adhering to social expectations.

Comparing ourselves to those seen as less successful.

The desire to be perceived by others in ways that align with our self-concept.

Our authentic self, which is expressed when we are not under scrutiny.

Presentation of self through social media, selectively showcasing desired aspects, perhaps different from true identity

The tendency to seek positive feedback to maintain or boost self-esteem.

Identity formed through group membership, influencing personal values and self-perception.

The gradual formation of one's self-identity through interactions with family, friends, and society, primarily during childhood and adolescence.

Family is often the initial source of values, beliefs, and security, profoundly impacting the development of self-worth and social skills.

Friends play a role reinforcing or challenging family values, influencing belonging, self-identity, and social comparison.

Schools, communities, and media introduce and reinforce social expectations, shaping how individuals see themselves culturally and nationally.

During childhood, individuals learn social behaviors and perspectives. This period forms early social roles and attitudes, building trust and autonomy.

Adolescence involves questioning who one is and where one fits in. It is a time for integrating multiple influences (family and peers) to form a cohesive self-concept.

Cultural background defines acceptable behaviors, values, and traditions, impacting self-identity.

Culture influences how individuals view themselves in relation to others, shaping their understanding of the world.

Emotional connection and support from a group, enhancing self-worth and providing a social context for identity.

Group affiliation aligns personal values with group norms, creating a sense of 'we' in addition to 'I'.

A shared sense of 'us' among group members, formed by aligning with group culture, values, and goals.

Feeling of achievement and solidarity with a group, boosting self-esteem and strengthening group bonds.

Peers heavily influence self-concept, especially during adolescence, by reinforcing values, behaviors, and norms.

Has a positive effect, building self-esteem and personal growth.

May force people to act against their own values which causes inner conflict.