Self-perception (week 2) Flashcards
Define self-perception theory
We come to know ourselves by observing our behaviour, and making attributions. What does my behaviour say about me?
When internal cues are weak, we look at our behaviour in the context of the situation. Alternatively, if the situation can’t explain our behaviour we infer a corresponding internal state
What is the over-justification effect?
When our behaviours are intrinsic to begin with, and a reward is then introduced for our behaviour, the behaviour becomes over justified. Meaning, it can have the reverse effect, and we no longer do the behaviour due to intrinsic reasons. We can get confused, and be led to think it is actually the extrinsic reward driving our behaviour.
Describe the over-justification effect study.
Pre-school children played with markers and some were given rewards. There were 3 conditions in the study: 1) reward, 2) no reward, 3) an unexpected reward.
Results: one week later, no rewards/ gifts were given to the children. Those who expected a reward, undermined intrinsic motivation. Those who received unexpected rewards, intrinsic motivation was not undermined or depleted.
What are useful rewards for intrinsic motivation?
Verbal praise that acknowledges competence, is more useful than tangible rewards. Receiving positive feedback about competence enhances intrinsic motivation.
What are the individual differences that effect motivation?
Intrinsic motivation versus achievement oriented motivation actually interferes with the things we choose to participate in.
Describe Social Comparison Theory and its key components.
Social Comparison Theory refers to when we are uncertain about abilities or opinions, we evaluate ourselves through comparison to similar others. In other words, we look at others to see where we stand.
Upward comparison = is when we compare ourselves to someone who is better on a different dimension to us.
Downward comparison = we compare ourselves to someone who is worse to us on some dimension.
Describe the Social Comparison Study
Mr clean vs Mr dirty study. Participants were tested on their self esteem before and after they sat next to a dirty or clean applicant when filling out a job application.
It is a complex phenomenon, as downward comparisons can actually make us feel worse about ourselves. On the other hand, if you have done something similar to someone of an upper comparison you can feel inspired.
Describe the theories of Self-Esteem
Sociometer Theory = signals social inclusion, how well we are fitting in with others, driven by need for connection & approval.
Terror management theory = driven by self-preservation, conscious and scared of death. We set up things to protect us and manage it. To cope, we construct & adhere to cultural world view. Self-esteem acts as bugger against thought of death
Describe Self-Awareness Theory
Self-awareness/ self-focussed attention leads us to compare ourselves to internal standards and values. Our level of self-awareness can effect how we feel about ourselves. We are often focussed on other things going on around us. However, certain events can prompt our self-awareness. For example, people watching us, watching a video or looking in the mirror. Are we living up to our internal standards?
How do some people reduce self-awareness?
Alcohol or television.
Describe Self-Enhancement and its key theories.
People are motivated to feel good about themselves, which can affect one’s thoughts and behaviours.
Better than average effect = most people think highly of themselves. We selectively focus on things we do well at. Attractive vs unattractive prototype study: people tended to choose a person slightly more attractive, as themselves
Self-serving beliefs = we often use self-enhancing recollections: we believe we did better than we actually did.
Attributions = taking credit for success, but blaming others for failures. Internal credit/ attribution.
Optimism about ones future = illusion of control. We think we are doing better than we actually are.
What is Self-Verification?
Self-verification is when we want others to see us the way we see ourselves. So, we seek out information based on our weaknesses, to confirm our views of ourselves. Often, people with lower self-esteem will do this. These people are also more committed to partners who see them unfavourably.
