Self-concept Self-Concept: The perception you have of

yourself We tend to categorize individuals according

to the way we perceive their behavior. If you stop to think about it, you realize that you categorize your own characteristics, as well. You may think of yourself as a competitor or as a person who hates competition, as an outgoing and sociable person or as someone who is basically shy.

Self-concept Self concept is developed early in life

and affects the way that person functions in his/her environment. Children develop self-concepts through what they believe the important people in their life feel about them.

Self-concept Cycle

Self-Concept “As I See Myself” is formed largely by

our own perception of what others think of us. This influences our actions. Our actions in large part determine how others actually do see us and directly influence their reactions to us in return. Their actions again, influence the way we see ourselves.

Factors Influencing Self-concept

Hereditary Factors• Genes determine height, proportions, facial

features, basic mental capacity• Physical and intellectual development can

depend on prenatal and postnatal care, diet, rest and exercise Parental responsibility

Factors Influencing Self-concept

Environmental Factors• Family you live with• Friends you keep

Peer Pressure• Where you live

Factors Influencing Self-Concept

Cultural Factors• Society

Sexuality gender roles• Role Models

Movie stars, politicians, humanitarians, athletes, musicians.

• Independence 16 to drive, 18 to vote, 18-21 to drink Your degree to conformity to those ideas affects

your self-concept

Threats to Self-Concept Prejudice Stereotypes Discrimination Mixed Messages in the Media

regarding how you should look, act, feel, etc.

Value and Self-Concept To develop a positive self-concept you

need to focus on your strengths and your values as a person

Our values are an important part of who we are. They provide us with an important set of personal standards.

Story What are your reactions to each of these

characters?• Abigail • Greg• Slug • Abigail’s mother • Sinbad the Sailor

What did each of the characters value? What influenced their decisions in this story? Would you have made the same choices?

Why or why not?

What is a value? Qualities, characteristics, or ideas about

which we feel strongly. Values are standards to guide your action,

judgments, and attitudes. Our values affect our decisions, goals and

behavior.

Follow-up Questions Which items were most important based on the

auction? Which were the least important? Why? Did the bidding differ between the girls and the

boys? If so in what way? Was there an item you really wanted but could

not purchase? Were there any items no one seemed

interested in bidding on? Why? How would your parents / guardians have bid

on some of these items? Would they have spent more or less money on certain items? Which ones?