Understanding Self-Concept and Self-Image
Every human being has a self-concept and a self-image. These two aspects of our identity are formed during our childhood and play a crucial role in shaping our perception of ourselves.
Our self-concept is primarily influenced by a combination of our biological inheritance and early childhood social experiences. It is the way we see ourselves, our beliefs, values, and perceptions about who we are as individuals. This self-concept begins to take shape before we even enter school, around the age of six.
As we grow and interact with others, our self-concept continues to evolve. It is influenced by our experiences, relationships, and the feedback we receive from the people around us. We constantly seek validation and acceptance from others, which further shapes our self-concept.
It is important to note that our self-concept is not fixed or unchangeable. It can be influenced by various factors throughout our lives. For example, if we receive positive feedback and encouragement, our self-concept tends to be more positive and confident. On the other hand, negative experiences or criticism can lead to a negative self-concept.
Alongside our self-concept, we also have a self-image. While the self-concept refers to how we perceive ourselves internally, the self-image is how we believe others perceive us. It is the projection of our self-concept onto the external world.
Our self-image is closely tied to our self-esteem and self-worth. We often seek validation and acceptance from others, and our self-image is influenced by the feedback we receive. If we receive positive feedback, our self-image tends to be more positive. Conversely, negative feedback can lead to a negative self-image.
Both our self-concept and self-image are important aspects of our identity. They shape our thoughts, behaviors, and interactions with others. Understanding and being aware of our self-concept and self-image can help us develop a stronger sense of self and improve our overall well-being.
It is important to remember that our self-concept and self-image are not static. They can change and evolve over time. By actively working on building a positive self-concept and self-image, we can enhance our self-confidence and lead a more fulfilling life.
So, take the time to reflect on your self-concept and self-image. Understand that you have the power to shape and redefine them. Embrace your uniqueness and value as an individual, and let go of any negative perceptions that may be holding you back.
After UCLA College of Letters where I obtained PhD is Philosophy, Psychology and Religion I got a teaching job at the University. I felt uneasy teaching. I applied for a job in the mental health field; I got many offers and within two years was running the mental health center where I worked, supervising psychologists and psychiatrists who have been in that field for many decades.
Eventually, I felt bored by the job (of been executive director...I was barely thirty two years old when I was the executive director of the largest mental health agency in the city where I lived) and quit and tried doing other things.
Nothing I tried worked out for me. So, I did other executive director jobs but eventually wound up quitting and returning to college teaching until I felt that teaching is too easy for me; I felt unchallenged being a college professor (I filled my time writing on assorted subjects that interested me).
Eventually, I realized that I have a destiny and fate. My normal routine is to read until I go to sleep (although there is a huge TV in the house, I seldom watch it) and get up around 5 AM, think for a while, and then go to my computer and type the thoughts that I just had in my sleep.