1.difine or explain what is meant by the self in psychological terms

Question

2. Differentiate between I and me
3.explain the difference between self image and self esteem

Answer 1

1. Self in Psychological Terms: In psychology, the concept of the self refers to the individual’s perception of their own identity and personal characteristics. It encompasses beliefs, thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that define who a person is. The self can include different components such as the personal self (how we see ourselves), the social self (how we believe others see us), and the ideal self (how we aspire to be). The self is a dynamic construct that is shaped by experiences, interactions, and cultural influences, and it plays a crucial role in our understanding of our behavior, motivations, and relationships with others.

2. Differentiating Between "I" and "Me": The distinction between "I" and "me" is rooted in the work of philosopher and social psychologist George Herbert Mead. "I" refers to the subjective aspect of the self; it represents the spontaneous, active part of an individual that responds to experiences and situations. It is the part of oneself that is engaged in action and decision-making. In contrast, "me" refers to the objective aspect of the self; it represents the internalized perceptions and expectations of societal norms, roles, and feedback from others. The "me" is shaped by social interactions and reflects how one thinks they are perceived by others. Together, the "I" and "me" create a comprehensive understanding of the self in social contexts.

3. Difference Between Self-Image and Self-Esteem: Self-image and self-esteem are two related but distinct concepts in psychology.

   • Self-Image: Self-image refers to the mental picture that an individual has of themselves. It includes visual depictions of one’s physical appearance, as well as perceptions related to one’s personality traits, abilities, and social roles. Self-image can be influenced by various factors, including personal experiences, societal standards, and media representations, and it can fluctuate over time.

   • Self-Esteem: Self-esteem, on the other hand, refers to the value or worth that an individual assigns to themselves. It encompasses feelings of self-acceptance and self-worth, and it can be influenced by self-image but is not limited to it. High self-esteem indicates a positive evaluation of oneself, while low self-esteem reflects a negative evaluation. Self-esteem affects how individuals approach challenges, relationships, and their overall mental health.

In summary, while self-image is how we see ourselves, self-esteem is how we feel about ourselves based on that image and other factors.