Nature of the Self PDF

Nature of the self I NTRODUCTI ON TO UNDERSTANDI NG THE SELF  What does it mean to know yourself? The Self as a Complex Dr. Paul Thagard (2014): “The System Self is a system of social, psychological, neutral, an...

Nature of the self I NTRODUCTI ON TO UNDERSTANDI NG THE SELF  What does it mean to know yourself? The Self as a Complex Dr. Paul Thagard (2014): “The System Self is a system of social, psychological, neutral, and molecular mechanisms” Social Mechanisms This refers to how our interactions with society—our relationships, culture, and social roles—shape our self-identity. The way we see ourselves is influenced by our connections with others and the social context we live in. Psychological Mechanisms These are the mental processes that contribute to our self-perception. Our thoughts, emotions, memories, and personality traits all play a role in how we define and understand ourselves. Neural Mechanisms This aspect highlights the role of the brain and nervous system in forming the self. Our self-concept is rooted in the brain's activity, including how it processes information, stores memories, and regulates emotions. Molecular Mechanisms This points to the biological and genetic factors that influence who we are. Our DNA, hormones, and other biochemical processes also contribute to the development and maintenance of our self.  1. The "I" (Self-Concept) It’s the part of us that experiences, acts, and makes decisions. The "I" is the one that thinks, feels, and does things in the present moment. Example: When you decide to study for an exam, it’s the "I" that is making Dual Aspects the decision, engaging with the material, and managing your time. It’s your sense of agency—the feeling that you are the one taking action. of Self 2. The "Me" (Self-Awareness) It’s how we reflect on ourselves, our characteristics, and our experiences. "I" (Self-Concept): The The "Me" is shaped by our perceptions of how others see us and how we subjective knower. see ourselves from an outside perspective. "Me" (Self-Awareness): Example: After a social interaction, when you think about how you came The object that is across to others—whether you were friendly, confident, or nervous—that’s the "Me" in action. It’s the reflective part of the self that evaluates and judges known. past actions and experiences. Integration of "I" and "Me" The "I" and "Me" constantly interact to shape our overall self-concept. For example, while the "I" might make a spontaneous decision to speak up in a meeting, the "Me" will later reflect on how that action was perceived by others and what it says about who you are.  Tabula Rasa (John Locke) Concept: The mind starts as a blank slate; The Evolution experiences shape the self. of Self- Implication: Our self-concept is not inherent Concept but developed through interactions. Early Childhood: Concrete Self-Concept Characteristics: Based on physical traits and actions. Example: “I have brown hair.” Milestone: Self-awareness begins around age 2. Middle Childhood: Social Comparisons & Adulthood: Stable & Integrated Self- Internal Traits Concept Characteristics: Incorporates abilities, feelings, Characteristics: Clear, consistent sense and social roles. of self. Example: “I am good at math.” Example: “I value honesty.” Milestone: Understands stable traits, influenced by others’ views. Milestone: Continued refinement through life experiences. Adolescence: Abstract & Multifaceted Self- Concept Characteristics: Reflects on values, beliefs, and aspirations. Example: “I want to help others.” Milestone: Identity exploration and formation.  The Self Theory emphasizes on the set of perceptions an individual has for himself and the perceptions of the Elements of relationships he has with others and the other aspects of life. the Self  Self-Image: How we see ourselves. Looking-Glass Self: How we think others see us. Ideal Self: Who we want to be. Real Self: Who we actually are.  HEALTHY SELF- UNHEALTHY SELF IMAGE IMAGE Self-Image  Based on own individual’s personal  Consistently focus on their flaws and feelings and limitations Self-Image can be characterized as a perspectives. set of beliefs about one’s self. It is  Not based on or  Heavily influenced by the impression you have of yourself influenced by other other people’s that forms a collective representation people’s opinions or opinions of them of your assets and liabilities. by societal expectations.  More optimistic  Persistently outlook on life and criticize themselves thereby more and tend to judge confidence in most of themselves and in their decisions and their own ability actions  A healthy self-image  An unhealthy self- is built upon a high image is much level of self-worth defined by societal standards, norms, and expectations Ideal Self Ideal-Self is defined as the way an individual would like to be. Looking- glass self Looking-Glass-Self is characterized as an individual’s perception of how others are perceiving his qualities or feeling about him. Real Self Real-Self is what others show you with respect to your self-image. An individual’s self-image is confirmed when others responses to him and shares their beliefs or perception, about what they actually feel about him. The real self is who we actually are. It is how we think, how we feel, look, and act. This is taken as feedback from the environment that helps an individual to adjusts his self-image accordingly and be in line with the cues he had received. Thus, according to Carl Rogers, the Self theory is composed of several perceptions of “I” or “me” and the perception of relationships of “I” and “me” to others. Basic motive is to self-actualize.  Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs Physiological Needs: Basic survival (food, water, shelter). Self- Safety Needs: Security, stability. actualization Love and Belonging: Relationships, social Self-Actualization—the highest level of human motivation. connections. Esteem: Confidence, respect from others. Self-Actualization: Achieving one's full potential, creativity, personal growth. MASLOW’S HIERARCHY OF NEEDS Maslow's hierarchy of needs is a motivational theory in psychology comprising a five- tier model of human needs, often depicted as hierarchical levels within a pyramid. Needs lower down in the hierarchy must be satisfied before individuals can attend to needs higher up.  Maslow’s Hierarchy is not just a theoretical model but a guide for understanding personal development and motivation. As we satisfy our basic needs, we can pursue higher levels of growth, ultimately reaching self-actualization, where we become the best versions of ourselves. Activity: Mirror, Mirror OBJECTIVE: TO EXPLORE AND REFLECT ON DIFFERENT ASPECTS OF YOUR SELF-CONCEPT AND PERSONAL GROWTH. Part 1: Individual Reflection Instructions: Take 10 minutes to reflect on the following prompts. Write or draw your responses in the space provided. Your Self-Image: How do you see yourself? List a few words or phrases that describe your self-image. How You Think Others See You: How do you believe others perceive you? Consider feedback or comments you’ve received. Your Ideal Self: Who do you aspire to be? List qualities, goals, and achievements you desire for yourself. Comparison of Real Self and Ideal Self: How does your real self compare to your ideal self? Reflect on the gaps and similarities. Part 2: Pair Discussion Instructions: Find a partner and take 10 minutes to discuss your reflections. Use the following questions to guide your conversation. How does your self-image align with how you think others see you? What are the major differences between your real self and your ideal self? How can understanding these differences help you in your personal growth? Part 3: Wrap-Up and Reflection Instructions: Reflect on what you learned from this activity. Write a brief response to the following: What insights did you gain about yourself through this activity? How can you apply these insights to your personal development?