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: