HSS 2102 Chapter Notes - Chapter 2: Self-Awareness, Social Comparison Theory, Interpersonal Communication

• School: University of Ottawa
• Department: Health Sciences
• Course: HSS 2102
• Professor: Tien Nguyen

Document Summary

Your self-concept represents the sum of total beliefs you have about yourself. Not only are you defined by characteristics (age, race, religion, gender), you are also defined by your life experiences, attitudes, and personality traits that influence your opinions of yourself. Your self concept changes as you change; you are always becoming. You are(cid:374)"t (cid:271)or(cid:374) (cid:449)ith a self (cid:272)o(cid:374)(cid:272)ept. Factors influence how you develop a self concept: self awareness, cultural perspectives, influence of others, past experiences: self-awareness. It is an understanding of your core identity. It requires realistic objective appraisal of your traits, thoughts, and feelings. The ability to monitor feelings from moment to moment is crucial to psychological insight and self understanding. An inability to notice our true feelings leaves us at mercy. Awareness of your thoughts and feelings is referred to self monitoring. It gives you the opportunity to modify or control anger rather than allowing it to take over your mind and body.