week 10 - self-concept and identity Flashcards
How does the idea of self-concept develop from childhood to early teens?
It becomes more abstract, less positive, and more focused on social comparison.
What did Susan Harter’s experiment reveal about children’s self-concept?
It showed that children’s descriptions of themselves change with age, from concrete and overly positive to more nuanced and realistic.
How do 3-4 year olds describe themselves according to Susan Harter’s experiment?
They focus on concrete observable characteristics, activities, abilities, basic psychological traits (e.g., happy), and are unrealistically positive.
How do 8-11 year olds describe themselves?
They focus on social comparison, have more nuanced concepts of traits, and are more realistic and less positive.
How do 11-13 year olds describe themselves?
They provide even more abstract self-descriptions and understand that self-concept can differ depending on context.
What is the personal fable in adolescence?
The belief that one’s feelings and experiences are unique, special, and not shared by others.
What is the spotlight effect in adolescence?
The tendency to worry excessively about others’ judgments and to feel as though an imaginary audience is always watching.
How is self-esteem generally during adolescence?
It is often low during adolescence.
What areas of self-esteem do boys tend to rate higher in?
Athletic ability, physical appearance, academics, and self-satisfaction.
What areas of self-esteem do girls tend to rate higher in?
Moral-ethics and behavioral conduct.
What are the stages of identity formation according to Erikson’s theory?
Early adolescence: Identity diffusion (not committed, not exploring) and Foreclosure (commitment without exploration). Late adolescence: Moratorium (not committed, exploring choices) and Identity achievement (coherent, stable, based on choices).
What is a psychosocial moratorium?
A period during adolescence for exploring options and forming an identity, such as the Amish rumspringa or going to college.
What are Carol Dweck’s two intuitive theories of ability?
Entity (fixed mindset) and incremental (growth mindset).
What characterizes a growth mindset?
The belief that abilities can be developed through hard work and effort, that intellectual abilities develop over time, and that effort is key to success and growth.
What characterizes a fixed mindset?
The belief that intellectual ability and traits are fixed, effort signals lack of natural talent, and setbacks signal lack of intelligence.
