Study unit 5.1 Components of the self and self-reflection

Question 1

Self-concept

Answer 1

Perceptions about the self that are formed through experience with other people and interpretations of the environment. It has an impact on mental health and is multi-dimensional. Specific aspects can be distinguished for example the material (bodily and physical needs), social (roles that individuals play and the need for acceptance and admiration) and spiritual (inner self).

Question 2

Schemas

Answer 2

A paradigm which makes it possible for us to handle large amounts of information.

Question 3

Self-schema

Answer 3

Knowledge structures of the self. The cognitive remnants of one’s interaction with the social environment, which is influenced by cultural context.

They develop through a process of categorisation and evaluation of a person’s physical features and habits by the self and others.

Compared with a pair of congitive glasses through which people observe and interpret their experiences of the world and of themselves.

People defend their self-image against threathening inputs in order to maintain self-consistency.

Question 4

Self-monitoring

Answer 4

The extent to which people are aware of the impact they have on other people and in social interactions.

Question 5

Subjective self-consciousness

Answer 5

The ability to distinguish the self from the physical and social environment.

Question 6

Self-reflection

Answer 6

A bigger awareness of the interactions between assumptions, attitudes, emotions and probing skills.

This process is carried out with an anticipating stance, which implies an openess and a responsible attitude, because the investigative position compels one not to make a judgement with preconceived ideas and assumptions.