Chapter 3 The Social Self Part 1 Jan

Chapter 3: The Social Self Part 1: Jan. 31, 2012

Self-Concept • Beliefs we have about ourselves – Self-schemas are part of this: – Recognize images of ourselves betw 18 -24 mos. – Then, social factors become important • 5 main sources of forming the self-concept: – Introspection, perceptions of our behavior, others’ influence, memories, & culture

Sources 1. Introspection – consider your own feelings – But may be difficult to describe accurately – What is “Affective forecasting”? – Impact bias? 2. Perceptions of our own behavior: – Bem’s self-perception theory: what is it?

– Self-perception can influence our emotions • Facial Feedback – changes in facial expression can trigger change in our emotion – Example? • New research on ‘embodied cognition’ – our judgments and behaviors reflect our body’s cues – Examples?

– Self-perception can influence our motivation • Overjustification effect – what is it? – Children’s motivation research:

3. Influence of other people – – Social comparison theory (Festinger): • When is this most often used? • With whom do we compare ourselves? – Effects of context:

4. Autobiographical memories – Recall earlier events to shape self-concept: What stages tend to be recalled? 1. 2. What is the effect of ‘flashbulb memories’? • may not be accurate (self-presentation effects)

5. Culture & self-concept: – Individualism (I) vs. collectivism (C) • • • I cultures = C cultures = What is the focus of self-definitions in these cultures? • Markus’ research on the self as part of a group: