Self Psychology PDF

Self-Concept: Theoretical Framework Carl Rogers\' Perspective - **Core Construct**: Single psychological structure called \"self\" - **Definition**: Comprehensive mental representation of personal identity - **Composition**: Collection of beliefs about: - Unique personal qualities...

Self-Concept: Theoretical Framework Carl Rogers\' Perspective - **Core Construct**: Single psychological structure called \"self\" - **Definition**: Comprehensive mental representation of personal identity - **Composition**: Collection of beliefs about: - Unique personal qualities - Typical behavioral patterns - Intrinsic characteristics Multifaceted Nature of Self-Concept - **Dynamic Structure**: Not a monolithic entity - **Self-Schemas**: Organized belief clusters about personal attributes - Personality traits - Abilities - Physical features - Values - Goals - Social roles Hazel Markus: Working Self-Concept - **Key Insight**: Only portion of total self-concept operates simultaneously - **Working Self-Concept**: Currently accessible self-representation - **Dynamic Characteristics**: - Contextually responsive - Information processing mechanism - Influences behavioral interpretation Possible Selves Theory Conceptual Framework - **Definition**: Potential future self-representations - **Development Sources**: - Past experiences - Current behaviors - Future expectations Psychological Functions - Goal-oriented motivation - Role model identification - Skill development targeting - Behavioral guidance mechanism Typology of Possible Selves 1. **Positive Selves** - Aspirational representations - Motivational potential - Psychological resilience indicator 2. **Negative Selves** - Feared potential outcomes - Avoidance motivation - Psychological protection mechanism Self-Discrepancy Theory (E. Tory Higgins) Self-Perception Categories ----------------- ----------------------------- -------------------------- Perception Type Characteristics Emotional Implications Actual Self Current perceived qualities Baseline emotional state Ideal Self Desired characteristics Aspirational motivation Ought Self Socially expected traits Normative pressure ----------------- ----------------------------- -------------------------- Discrepancy Dynamics - **Actual/Ideal Discrepancy** - Triggers dejection-related emotions - Potential psychological vulnerability - **Actual/Ought Discrepancy** - Generates agitation-related emotions - Potential anxiety development Coping Mechanisms - Behavioral adjustment - Expectation recalibration - Self-awareness management - Cognitive reframing Factors Shaping Self-Concept Influential Sources 1. Personal observations 2. Social feedback 3. Cultural values 4. Comparative experiences Social Comparison Dynamics - **Reference Group Selection** - Contextually determined - Goal-oriented comparison - **Comparative Strategies** - Skill assessment - Self-image maintenance - Performance evaluation Self-Esteem Considerations Developmental Influences - Parental involvement - Peer interactions - Cultural context - Personal achievements Psychological Variations - **Individualistic Cultures** - Independent self-perception - Personal achievement emphasis - **Collectivistic Cultures** - Interdependent self-view - Group harmony prioritization Advanced Psychological Insights Cognitive Processing - **Automatic vs. Mindful Processing** - **Selective Attention Mechanisms** - **Self-Attribution Strategies** Motivational Drivers 1. Accuracy motive 2. Consistency motive 3. Self-enhancement motive Self-Regulation Strategies - **Self-Efficacy Development** - Mastery experiences - Vicarious learning - Emotional interpretation - Persuasive encouragement Impression Management Strategic Self-Presentation - Ingratiation techniques - Self-promotion - Exemplification - Intimidation - Supplication Self-Monitoring Variations - High self-monitors - Low self-monitors - Situational adaptability