The Self From Psychological Perspectives PDF

GE2405 THE SELF FROM PSYCHOLOGICAL PERSPECTIVES Have you ever considered the influence of our subconscious mind on how we perceive ourselves? This module explores the psychology behind our self-perception. The Self as a Cognitive Construction Our self-awareness is constantly in...

GE2405 THE SELF FROM PSYCHOLOGICAL PERSPECTIVES Have you ever considered the influence of our subconscious mind on how we perceive ourselves? This module explores the psychology behind our self-perception. The Self as a Cognitive Construction Our self-awareness is constantly influenced by cognitive processes such as perception, interpretation, and memory. It emphasizes the dynamic nature of the individual that features its evolution through personal experiences, beliefs, and social interactions. This perspective indicates that our self-concept is flexible and changes as we incorporate new information and reinterpret our experiences, which shape how we perceive ourselves and the environment. William James’ Self Theory (“I” self vs. “Me” self) William James was an American psychologist and philosopher who proposed that an individual's perception of self consists of two categories: I and Me. Two Aspects of the Self “I” self – This is how we experience ourselves in the present moment, including our thoughts, feelings, and actions. It’s about being aware of ourselves as we live and reacting in real time. Examples: When you reflect on your thoughts and feelings about a recent experience, such as contemplating how you felt during a challenging conversation. Deciding based on your values and preferences, like choosing a career path that aligns with your passions. “Me” self – This is the objective part of ourselves, made up of our traits, roles, and how we see ourselves based on past experiences and social feedback. It’s more stable and forms our enduring self-image. Examples: Identifying yourself as a student, friend, or sibling based on your roles in different social contexts. Recognizing your physical attributes, such as being tall or having blue eyes, which contributes to self- perception. Global model vs. Differentiated model Understanding cultural differences is crucial in today's interconnected world. Scholars use global and differentiated models to study these differences, focusing on universal patterns and uniqueness within each context. Global Model – This model highlights how traits, values, and self-concept remain consistent across different situations, suggesting that fundamental aspects of the self define one's identity regardless of external factors. It proposes that personality traits and core values endure and shape behavior consistently over time and across diverse cultural contexts. Example: Harper is known for her kindness and patience among friends, family, and colleagues. Whether helping a friend through a tough time, resolving conflicts at work, or spending time with family, Harper 04 Handout 1A *Property of STI Page 1 of 5  GE2405 consistently demonstrates these traits. It illustrates how her personality traits remain stable and define her identity across various social contexts. Differentiated Model – This refers to a psychological and interpersonal theory developed by Murray Bowen, a psychiatrist and researcher in the field of family therapy. Differentiation of Self 1. Intrapsychic Differentiation – It is when we can tell apart our thoughts from our emotions. Example: Paul might decide to pursue his own career goals despite family expectations, like choosing art over medicine because it’s what he truly wants for himself. 2. Interpersonal Differentiation – It is when we can distinguish our experience from the experience of people we are connected to. Example: Adrian might respectfully disagree with a close friend’s political views without feeling the need to argue or distance himself. It allows him to maintain individuality while nurturing relationships. Overall, Bowen's theory emphasizes how these forms of differentiation contribute to individual and relational health within families and broader social contexts. Carl Rogers’ Self Theory (Real vs. Ideal Self) Carl Rogers, a key figure in humanistic psychology, introduced a theory of self-focusing on personal growth and fulfillment. His theory distinguishes between the real self (one's current identity) and the ideal self (aspirations). It is crucial to understand how individuals perceive themselves and aim for harmony in their lives. Rogers' insights explore the dynamics of personal identity and psychological well- being. Real Self – It refers to how individuals perceive themselves currently, including their beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors based on their actual experiences and self-reflection. Example: John believes he is a reliable and hardworking employee who consistently meets deadlines and contributes effectively to team projects. This perception of himself reflects his real self based on his actual behaviors and self-assessment. Ideal Self – It refers to the person we aspire to be, reflecting our goals, values, and envisioned accomplishments for personal growth and fulfillment. It represents our highest aspirations and the best version of ourselves that we aim to achieve. Example: Samantha aspires to become a skilled public speaker who confidently delivers engaging presentations to large audiences. She envisions engaging others through her articulate communication skills. This vision represents Samantha's ideal self, reflecting her aspirations and goals for personal growth and achievement. 04 Handout 1A *Property of STI Page 2 of 5  GE2405 David Lester’s Theory (Multiple vs. Unified Selves) David Lester is a psychologist renowned for his research in suicide prevention, personality assessment, and humanistic psychology. His work explores individual differences and the complexities of human behavior, bridging psychological theory with practical applications for mental health. He introduced the concept of multiple and unified selves within the framework of psychology. Multiple Selves – Individuals can exhibit different identities or behaviors in various situations or roles. Example: Julia acts confidently at work but is more reserved in social settings with friends, demonstrating different aspects of her personality in other contexts. Unified Self – It refers to a cohesive identity that integrates various aspects of the self into a harmonious whole. Example: Emily maintains a stable self-concept that aligns with her values and beliefs across different life domains. Donald W. Winnicott’s Theory (True Self vs. False Self) Donald Woods Winnicott was a famous psychiatrist, psychoanalyst, and English pediatrician who developed an interesting approach to the human personality. He introduced the concept of the true self and the false self. True Self – It represents the authentic and innate qualities of an individual. It reflects one’s core identity and genuine feelings. Example: William pursues a career in music because he has a deep passion for it, despite societal pressures to choose a more conventional profession. False Self – It refers to a protective persona formed in response to external pressures, expectations, or traumas. It masks the true self to cope with social demands or avoid rejection. Example: Oliver pretends to like certain music or fashion trends just to fit in with a particular peer group, hiding his true preferences. Winnicott believed nurturing the true self fosters psychological well-being, while excessive reliance on the false self can lead to inner conflict and emotional distress. The Self as a Proactive and Agentic by Albert Bandura Albert Bandura was a Canadian-born American psychologist best known for his social learning theory, the concept of self-efficacy, and his famous Bobo doll experiments, which emphasized the proactive nature of human agency. Proactive behavior– It refers to self-initiated behavior aimed at addressing problems before they arise. 04 Handout 1A *Property of STI Page 3 of 5  GE2405 Example: A student takes the initiative to organize a study group, prepares study materials in advance, and actively participates in discussions to enhance their understanding of the subject. Agentic behavior – It refers to the ability to control one’s goals, actions, and destinies. Example: An entrepreneur identifies a market opportunity, develops a business plan, secures funding, and takes proactive steps to launch and grow their startup, demonstrating agency in pursuing entrepreneurial goals. Bandura’s concept of human agency underscores that individuals actively shape their actions, thoughts, and environments. By making deliberate decisions, setting clear goals, and taking decisive steps to achieve desired outcomes, individuals exercise the authority to influence and direct their lives according to their beliefs and intentions. This concept emphasizes that individuals are not passive recipients of circumstances but active agents who can control their lives through their beliefs and actions. Four (4) Core Properties of Human Agency 1. Intentionality – It refers to setting goals and making plans to achieve something. Example: Luna sets a goal to become a more confident public speaker. She decides to enroll in a public speaking course and commits to practicing regularly. 2. Forethought – It refers to thinking ahead and planning actions based on expected outcomes. Example: Before each presentation, Luna visualizes herself delivering her speech confidently. She prepares by organizing her thoughts, creating visual aids, and rehearsing her delivery. 3. Self-reactiveness – It refers to monitoring and evaluating one’s behavior and emotions. Example: During her first presentation, Luna notices that she speaks too quickly and feels nervous. She acknowledges this feedback from her instructor and classmates, recognizing the need to improve her pacing and manage her anxiety. 4. Self-reflection – It refers to rewarding or adjusting behaviors based on self-evaluation and feedback. Example: Luna addresses her challenges by practicing speaking slower, using relaxation techniques before presentations, and seeking feedback from peers to improve her delivery. She celebrates small successes and adjusts her approach as she learns and progresses. Reference: Corpuz, R., et al. (2019). Understanding the Self. C & E Publishing, Inc. The Bowen Center for the Study of the Family. (n.d.). Differentiation of self. https://www.thebowencenter.org/differentiation-of-self. Main, P. (2022, January 20). Carl Rogers’ theory. Structural Learning. https://www.structural- learning.com/post/carl-rogers-theory. Michael. (2018, July 26). Donald Winnicott and His Theory about the False Self. Exploring Your Mind. https://exploringyourmind.com/donald-winnicott-and-his-theory-about-the-false-self/. 04 Handout 1A *Property of STI Page 4 of 5  GE2405 MSEd, K. C. (2022a, November 7). What is Self-Concept? Verywell Mind. https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is- self-concept-2795865. MSEd, K. C. (2024, June 25). Self-efficacy and why believing in yourself matters. Verywell Mind. https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-self-efficacy-2795954. Sansom, T. (2024, June 2). True or false: Winnicott’s notions of self. The Weekend University. https://theweekenduniversity.com/true-or-false-winnicotts-notions-of-self/. Simply Psychology. (2024, February 2). Albert Bandura's Social Cognitive Theory. https://www.simplypsychology.org/social-cognitive-theory.html. The School of Life. (2024, March 12). The true and the false self. https://www.theschooloflife.com/article/the-true- and-the-false-self/. 04 Handout 1A *Property of STI Page 5 of 5