Learning Objectives
By the end of this section, you will be able to:
- Identify factors across the life span affecting one’s self-concept
- Recognize psychological factors affecting one’s self-concept
- Explain physiological factors affecting one’s self-concept
- Describe cultural and behavioral factors affecting one’s self-concept
Self-concept is a multifaceted perspective that individuals develop to understand themselves and their place in the world. The development of self-concept begins in infancy, and core components of self-concept are established in childhood. But like other features of the human body and mind, self-concept evolves and changes throughout individuals’ lives.
Self-concept is influenced by psychological, physiological, cultural, and behavioral factors, which may motivate change in one or more of the components of self-concept, including self-esteem, self-image, self-identity, and social identity. As these components evolve, overall self-concept changes. Understanding how these factors can influence each component of self-concept helps healthcare professionals, educators, and counselors provide more effective care and support throughout individuals’ lives.
Factors Across the Life Span
As individuals go through life, their self-concept is constantly interacting with their environment and is impacted by everything individuals do. The factors that affect self-concept include internal influences, such as emotions and physical health, as well as external influences, like social interactions and even the physical locations where individuals live and work. When these interactions and influences are positive, self-concept typically changes in a positive manner. Likewise, negative interactions and influences tend to motivate negative changes in self-concept.
Developmental Changes
Self-concept begins to develop in infancy as babies become self-aware, and by age 6 or 7 years, most children have a basic self-concept. In developmental psychology, personal development is distinguished by distinct stages of life when individuals typically reach turning points. During each stage, self-concept evolves as individuals navigate life’s challenges and changes. The stages of life identified by developmental psychologists include the following (Cherry, 2023; Malavanti, n.d.):
- Infancy (birth to 12 months): This stage is characterized by learning to trust others to meet basic needs, such as affection and nourishment.
- Early childhood (toddler to preschool, 1 to 5 years old): This stage is characterized by learning how to do tasks independently. The quality of early-attachment relationships with caregivers can shape a child’s sense of security, trust, and self-worth. Parental warmth, responsiveness, and supportiveness contribute to the development of positive self-esteem and self-confidence. Early interactions with peers and caregivers provide opportunities for children to learn about themselves and their social roles, influencing their self-concept.
- Middle childhood (6 to 11 years old): This stage is characterized by gaining self-confidence, maturing physically, and learning how to take initiative. Children begin to compare themselves to others in various domains, influencing their self-evaluation and self-worth. During this stage, children also develop guilt when they violate boundaries, or their actions result in failure.
- Adolescence (12 to 17 years old): This stage is characterized by experimentation as teenagers overcome confusion about their roles and develop stronger identities. Physical changes, as well as exposure to social media and online interactions during puberty can affect adolescents’ body image, self-esteem, and overall self-concept, including perceptions of popularity and attractiveness. Adolescents engage in identity exploration and self-discovery, experimenting with different roles, values, and beliefs.
- Young adulthood (18 to 35 years old): This stage is characterized by establishing relationships with others, including societal bonds. Intimate relationships, family dynamics, and social support networks contribute to adults’ sense of belonging and self-worth.
- Middle adulthood (36 to 64 years old): This stage is characterized by becoming part of a family unit, establishing a sense of purpose, and making contributions to society. Life events such as marriage, parenthood, divorce, or loss can prompt reassessment of one’s identity and values, influencing self-concept.
- Older adulthood (65 years old and older): This stage is characterized by reflection and assessing life. Transitioning into retirement can prompt reflection on one’s life achievements, roles, and identity outside of work. Physical health, cognitive changes, and age-related challenges can influence older adults’ self-concept and perceptions of aging. In addition, older adults may contemplate their legacy, contributions to society, and sense of purpose, shaping their self-concept in later life.
Previous Failures or Successes
As individuals age and live through each stage of life, they succeed at some things while failing at others. During childhood, this may include successes or failures in school, such as receiving high grades or struggling academically, which can shape children’s beliefs about their intelligence and capabilities. Children also may have positive and negative experiences in social relationships, such as making friends easily or being bullied, that influence how they perceive their social skills and likability.
As children become adolescents, being accepted or rejected by peers can profoundly affect their self-esteem and sense of belonging. Adolescents also explore their identities. If they find a supportive social group that accepts their identity and makes them feel like they belong, this can enhance their self-concept. Likewise, if they do not feel that they fit in with a group, they may experience identity confusion or insecurity.
In adulthood, career successes, such as job promotions and awards, can boost self-confidence and contribute to a positive self-concept, while failure to achieve career goals can foster disappointment and a negative self-concept. In their personal lives, adults who have fulfilling relationships are more likely to have higher self-esteem than those who experience rejection and relationship breakups.
For older adults, a fulfilling retirement that allows for leisure, hobbies, and social engagement can contribute to a positive self-concept, while difficulties adjusting to retirement, including financial struggles, may lead to feelings of loss or diminished self-worth. If older adults have health challenges, overcoming these to lead a rewarding life can bolster their self-concept, while chronic illness or disability can lead to depression and feelings of inadequacy.
At all stages of life, success bolsters self-concept, fostering feelings of competence and worth. Failures, on the other hand, may be distressing, causing feelings of inadequacy and diminished self-concept.
An important part of this is self-efficacy, which refers to an individual’s belief that they can control their own capabilities and circumstances to achieve success. According to Albert Bandura’s self-efficacy theory of motivation, individuals with a high sense of self-efficacy have a great deal of self-confidence based on their mastery in previous situations and the positive feedback they received about their performance. Likewise, people who experience more failures and receive less positive feedback typically have less self-confidence and self-efficacy (Lopez-Garrido, 2023).
Individuals’ sense of self-efficacy influences their self-esteem that, in turn, affects their self-concept. Thus, when individuals are satisfied with their achievements and feel successful, they have a higher level of self-efficacy, which promotes higher self-esteem and leads to a more positive self-concept. Likewise, dissatisfaction and failures typically motivate individuals to have lower levels of self-efficacy, which leads to lower self-esteem as well as a more negative self-concept.
Psychological Factors
Self-concept is also affected by psychological factors, including emotional experiences and self-awareness. The Big Five personality traits are psychological indicators that shape self-concept, particularly self-image, which is a critical component of self-concept (Figure 32.6). These traits affect how individuals experience life and perceive their physical appearance and abilities. The Big Five personality traits include the following (Lim, 2023):
- The trait openness to experience includes characteristics such as creativity and intellectual curiosity. Individuals who are more open to experience are more likely to appreciate abstract thinking, have more vivid imaginations, and feel more comfortable with personal emotions.
- The conscientiousness trait includes characteristics such as self-discipline, goal setting, productivity, and competence. When individuals have a high level of conscientiousness, they tend to be more capable of planning and organizing their lives to achieve objectives.
- With extroversion, characteristics observed include sociability and openness. Individuals with a higher level of extroversion tend to be more assertive and outgoing. They also may demonstrate higher levels of energy and friendliness than those who are more introverted.
- The agreeableness trait includes characteristics such as empathy, respectfulness, and ability to trust others. Individuals with a higher level of agreeableness tend to be more compassionate and focused on the positive attributes of others.
- With neuroticism, the focus is on emotional stability. Individuals with a higher level of neuroticism tend to experience more depression, anxiety, anger, and vulnerability. They also tend to be more impulsive and self-conscious.
Each of the Big Five personality traits functions independently of the other traits. The levels of each trait are measured along a continuum, and personality tests can determine whether individuals exhibit a low or high score for each trait. Generally, individuals who score higher on openness to experience, conscientiousness, extroversion, and agreeableness, while scoring lower on neuroticism, tend to have more positive self-concepts (Lim, 2023).
Life Crisis or Stressors
All individuals experience stress, which refers to the emotional, psychological, and physical changes that our body undergoes in response to stimuli. Stress is another factor that can affect self-concept.
Some common sources of stress include relationships, parenting, work, finances, physical health, and social interactions. Even when individuals are not experiencing problems in these areas, just the pressure to keep everything in balance can cause stress. On a daily basis, things that may seem minor, like sitting in traffic, meeting work deadlines, getting a child to school on time, and remembering to return a sibling’s telephone call can be sources of stress. In addition, any change in life is likely to cause stress. This includes positive changes, such as a promotion at work or buying a new car, as well as negative changes, such as losing a close friend or gaining too much weight.
Stress can be categorized into the following types (Scott, 2022):
- Short-term stress encountered in daily life is acute stress.
- Acute stress that happens routinely, causing ongoing frustration, is episodic acute stress. Examples of this include things like dealing with people who are always late for appointments, frequently repairing a toilet that will not stop running, and mediating between children who argue often.
- Ongoing stress caused by long-term problems, such as a debilitating medical condition, that create continuing issues is chronic stress.
- Fun and excitement caused by adrenaline in response to positive life events, such as getting married or winning a competition, is eustress. While eustress is regarded as a positive source of stress that helps individuals stay energized, it needs to be moderated because too much fun and excitement can be overwhelming.
- A state of extreme discomfort, suffering, or mental anguish is distress. It can manifest as emotional, psychological, or physical pain caused by various stressors, challenges, or adverse circumstances. Distress often involves feelings of anxiety, sadness, or unease that impact a person’s ability to function effectively in daily life.
Stress affects well-being and can impact individuals both physically and mentally. Some of the physical problems experienced in response to stress include headaches, muscle tension, body pains, digestive system issues, racing heartbeats, and reduced energy. The mental problems in response to stress may include difficulty sleeping, mood swings, irritability, anxiety, and depression.
If these problems are prolonged, they may have a negative impact on individuals’ self-concept. This is particularly true for stress-related mental issues like anxiety and depression. Such issues tend to make individuals feel insecure and less optimistic. This may negatively affect their self-esteem and self-image, which are both important components of self-concept. Thus, stress is a factor that can adversely affect self-concept.
Clinical Judgment Measurement Model
Take Action: Referring a Patient for Mental Health Counseling
The nurse is gathering the medical history of a patient who has headaches and neck tension but no other symptoms. The nurse plans to give the patient some acetaminophen (per provider’s orders), along with instructions to use an ice pack until the headache and tension improve and then get some rest.
The nurse notices the patient is nervous and talks about being too busy at work because of a staffing shortage. The patient is working ten to twelve hours per day while taking care of two small children and an aging parent. The patient’s busy schedule, compounded by caregiving responsibilities and work demands due to staffing shortages, creates significant distress. While discussing these challenges, the patient starts crying. The patient’s nervousness and tears underscore the psychological toll of these stressors on the patient’s self-concept. The patient may feel overwhelmed, inadequate, or unable to meet all their responsibilities, which can diminish self-esteem and confidence. These feelings can distort self-perception, leading to a negative self-concept characterized by doubt and emotional strain.
The nurse recognizes that the patient’s headaches and neck tension likely are a response to stress. After giving the patient acetaminophen, the nurse takes action by asking the clinic’s psychologist to talk to the patient and help identify ways the patient can better manage stress. By providing pain relief and involving the clinic’s psychologist, the nurse takes proactive steps to address both the physical symptoms and the underlying psychological impact of stress. This approach aims to support the patient in developing effective coping strategies and improving stress management skills.
Grief and Loss
Throughout life, individuals experience loss. Loved ones pass away. Friends move to another state. Jobs are taken away when a company downsizes. Favorite restaurants go out of business. Graduation day arrives and school is over. These situations and many others cause individuals to lose people and things that are important to them, forever altering their lives.
Such losses, particularly when someone dies, are likely to trigger grief, which is deep emotional discomfort and sorrow. Grief is another factor that affects self-concept. As individuals go through the five stages of grief as identified by the Kübler-Ross model—denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance—they experience physical and mental issues (see Kübler-Ross’s Five Stages for more information).
For example, grief may cause individuals to have physical problems such as body aches and pains, loss of appetite, fatigue, higher blood pressure, insomnia, dehydration, forgetfulness, confusion, and brain fog. Emotionally, individuals may experience anxiety, hostility, guilt, despondency, and loneliness, as well as anger and depression. When grief is caused by the loss of a loved one, some individuals even experience identity confusion, which is the feeling that part of them also died when their loved one died (Bellet et al., 2020).
If these symptoms persist, grieving individuals may change the way they regard themselves and their lives, including their feelings about the future. This change in perspective is likely to alter individuals’ self-concept.
For example, some individuals may experience identity reconstruction as they struggle to make sense of the changed circumstances caused by their loss. If the individual loses something central to their self-concept and self-worth, such as a partner or a job, they may even lose their sense of identity.
Sometimes, loss triggers feelings of guilt, regret, or inadequacy as individuals blame themselves for perceived failings or shortcomings that made them unable to prevent the loss. Such feelings can cause individuals to have negative self-evaluations leading to diminished self-worth and eroded self-esteem.
Grief often prompts individuals to confront existential questions about the meaning and purpose of life, their beliefs, values, and mortality. This existential questioning can profoundly impact self-concept as individuals grapple with their place in the world and their sense of self in the face of loss and mortality.
Loss also can disrupt social connections and support networks, leading to feelings of isolation and loneliness. Social roles and identities tied to the lost relationship or context may also be affected, further complicating individuals’ sense of self within their social environment.
Individuals may adopt various coping strategies to manage grief, which can influence their self-concept. Some may seek support from others, engage in self-reflection, or find solace in religious or spiritual beliefs, while others may withdraw or engage in avoidant behaviors that undermine their self-esteem and sense of identity.
Grief may motivate individuals to search for meaning in their loss and find ways to integrate the experience into their self-narrative. This process of meaning-making can lead to personal growth, resilience, and a deeper understanding of oneself, ultimately shaping one’s self-concept in more adaptive ways. Through the process of mourning and adaptation, individuals may develop a stronger sense of self, greater compassion, and a deeper appreciation for life, ultimately leading to a more resilient and enriched self-concept.
Patient Conversations
What If Your Patient Keeps Crying and Seems Confused?
Scenario: The nurse enters the patient’s room to begin an assessment and finds the patient crying. When the nurse starts talking, the patient stops crying but does not seem able to focus on what the nurse is saying.
Nurse: Hi, my name is Chandler, and I am going to be your nurse today. Please verify your name and date of birth for me.
Patient: Where am I?
Nurse: You are in the hospital emergency room. Your neighbor found you wandering around outside your house, and you seemed confused. Please tell me your name and date of birth.
Patient: My name is Melissa, and I was born in 1959.
Nurse: Okay, Melissa, that’s good. Please tell me your last name. And what is your birthday?
Patient: My last name is Garcia, and my birthday is January 17.
Nurse: Good. Melissa, I need to take your vital signs.
Patient: (sobbing) Please don’t hurt me. Roger is gone, and I can’t do this by myself.
Nurse: Melissa, I won’t hurt you. I promise. Who is Roger?
Patient: (crying harder) Roger is my partner. He’s gone.
Nurse: Did something happen to Roger?
(The patient nods but is crying too hard to speak. The nurse hands the patient a tissue, sits in a chair next to the patient, and occasionally pats the patient on the shoulder while the patient cries. When the patient’s crying subsides, the nurse speaks again.)
Nurse: Would you like to tell me about Roger?
Patient: (choking back tears) Roger was in a car accident, and he is gone. (The patient begins crying again and then looks at the nurse.) Where am I and who are you?
(The nurse recognizes the patient may need a psychiatric evaluation.)
Nurse: My name is Chandler, and you are at the hospital. Please excuse me, I need to make a quick phone call.
Scenario follow-up: Patient nods and continues crying. Keeping the patient in view, the nurse steps outside the room and contacts the provider to report the concerns and recommend a mental health evaluation. The nurse goes back inside the room and sits with the patient while she continues to cry. In a few minutes, a psychiatric nurse enters the room and gently leads the patient away to a quiet area to evaluate her for identity confusion related to grief.
Physiological Factors
Physiological factors exert a profound influence on one’s self-concept, permeating through mood, cognition, and overall well-being. Neurotransmitters and hormones, such as serotonin and dopamine, regulate mood and emotional states, with imbalances contributing to mood disorders like depression and anxiety, distorting perceptions of oneself and the world. Chronic illnesses, disabilities, or injuries alter physical abilities and appearance, impacting self-esteem and perceived competence. Persistent pain or discomfort from health conditions can lead to frustration and diminished self-worth, eroding self-concept. Disrupted sleep patterns, poor nutrition, and sedentary lifestyles impair cognitive function and emotional regulation, affecting self-perception and confidence. Moreover, genetic predispositions interact with environmental factors, shaping susceptibility to physiological challenges and influencing self-concept.
When individuals’ systems function normally and they have no physiological issues, they generally experience better health outcomes. For example, when individuals’ renal systems function properly, their kidneys, bladder, ureters, and urethra work in normal ranges to help control fluid in their bodies, guarding against problems such as incontinence and dehydration. Such physical well-being can enhance self-perception by fostering a sense of physical competence and reliability. Mentally, the absence of physiological issues related to the renal system can also positively impact self-concept. Individuals are less likely to experience anxiety or worry related to health concerns, allowing them to focus more on their personal goals, relationships, and overall quality of life.
If individuals have physiological issues with any system in their bodies, they may not feel well. For example, individuals who routinely consume too much caffeine may cause physiological issues for themselves, such as insomnia, caffeine jitters, and irritability. Other physiological issues may be the result of disease, such as respiratory problems that lead to asthma. When individuals experience any problem rooted in a physiological issue, that problem is likely to reduce their energy levels and negatively impact their sense of well-being, which has a negative effect on their self-concept.
Aging
As individuals age, physiological changes become increasingly prominent, impacting various aspects of their lives and ultimately influencing their self-concept. Physiological factors of aging encompass a spectrum of transformations, from alterations in physical appearance and health conditions to changes in cognitive function and social dynamics. These changes can challenge individuals’ perceptions of themselves and their capabilities, leading to shifts in self-esteem, self-image, and overall well-being.
Patient Conversations
Reflecting with Your Patient about Aging
Scenario: The nurse enters the examination room and finds an older patient rubbing his knee. The nurse notices a cane beside the patient’s chair.
Nurse: Hello. I’m Tabitha, and I’ll be your nurse today. What health concern brings you here today?
Patient: My knee is swollen, and it hurts. I can’t walk up and down stairs, and I have to use the cane to help me get out of chairs.
Nurse: When did the problem start?
Patient: It’s been an off and on problem for about six months, but this is the worst that it’s been. I’ve never had swelling before, and the pain is worse now than ever before.
Nurse: Have you taken any medication to help with the pain and swelling?
Patient: I took some ibuprofen, which usually helps. But I can’t tell that it’s making a difference this time. That’s why I decided to come in to see you.
Nurse: Okay. Please raise your pant leg so I can examine the knee.
Patient: (The patient raises the pant leg so Tabitha can examine the knee.) This is frustrating. I recently turned 74 years old, and I know that this is just part of getting older. I have friends younger than me who have already had knee replacements. They tell me that I need to get one, but even if that’s something I have to do, I’m not ready to do it now. Just three years ago, I ran a marathon, and until about six months ago, I took long walks several times per week. I could still jog as recently as last summer. But I guess my age is catching up with me because I just can’t move around as well now as I could. I hate to admit it, but I guess I’m becoming an old person, and I’ll have to start acting like one, whatever that means. (Patient smiles sadly at the nurse.)
Nurse: I understand, and I’m sorry that this is frustrating. We will talk with the provider to see if they can prescribe some medications that are stronger than ibuprofen. We can also set you up with a physical therapist who can show you some exercises to do that can help with mobility. We’ll keep you going as well as possible for as long as possible. Also, if you would like to talk to someone about the challenges of aging, we have some excellent counselors. (The nurse smiles at the patient, and he looks grateful.)
Scenario follow-up: The patient receives a prescription for a corticosteroid to help relieve the swelling and pain in his knee. In addition, he has an appointment with a physical therapist to help him with exercises to increase mobility. The healthcare provider also encourages the patient to do things at home, such as elevate the knee when it is swollen and use ice and heat to relieve the pain. Finally, the patient makes an appointment with one of the clinic’s counselors to talk about coping with changes in the body as we age.
One of the most noticeable physiological changes associated with aging is the decline in physical abilities and changes in appearance. Reduced mobility, loss of muscle mass, and changes in body composition can affect how individuals perceive their physical competence and attractiveness. These alterations may trigger feelings of dissatisfaction with one’s body image and a sense of loss of independence, particularly if they were once highly active or physically fit. Consequently, individuals may grapple with adjusting to their changing bodies and the implications for their self-concept.
Age-related cognitive decline, such as memory lapses and slower cognitive processing, can challenge individuals’ perceived cognitive abilities and competence. Tasks that were once routine and effortless may become more challenging, leading to frustration and doubts about one’s mental sharpness and capabilities. This cognitive decline can impact self-concept by undermining confidence and self-assurance, especially in situations that require cognitive agility and quick thinking.
In addition to physical and cognitive changes, managing chronic health conditions becomes increasingly prevalent with age and can significantly impact self-concept. Coping with conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, or cardiovascular disease may require adjustments to daily routines, lifestyle habits, and social interactions. Individuals may experience fluctuations in self-esteem and confidence as they navigate the limitations imposed by their health conditions and confront uncertainties about their future health and well-being.
Transitions in social roles and relationships, such as retirement, empty nesting, and loss of loved ones, can prompt profound adjustments in identity and purpose. Retirement, for example, may lead to a loss of professional identity and a shift in priorities, raising questions about one’s sense of purpose and contribution to society. Losses of loved ones can trigger feelings of grief and loneliness, challenging individuals’ perceptions of themselves within the context of their social relationships and support networks.
Attitudes toward aging also play a significant role in shaping self-concept in later life. Positive attitudes, characterized by a sense of acceptance, resilience, and gratitude for the opportunities that come with age, can foster a healthy and adaptive self-concept. Conversely, negative stereotypes and ageist attitudes prevalent in society may contribute to feelings of self-doubt, inadequacy, and diminished self-worth among older adults.
Aging also affects one’s self-concept by impacting self-esteem. As self-esteem develops in childhood, it tends to improve considerably between the ages of 15 and 30 years, and then continues to gradually improve before peaking at around age 60 years. For most individuals, self-esteem remains constant during their 60s but then begins a gradual decline after age 70 years. Since self-esteem is a major component of self-concept, the changes in self-esteem caused by aging tend to affect self-concept (Fagan, 2018).
The challenges associated with aging, including physiological changes, declining health, and shifts in social roles, can indeed make the aging process frustrating and emotionally taxing. As individuals grapple with the physical and cognitive changes that come with age, they may experience a range of emotions, from frustration and anxiety to sadness and loss. These feelings can accumulate over time, potentially leading to mental health problems such as anxiety and depression (Kang & Kim, 2022).
Illness
Physiological factors of illness can significantly influence one’s self-concept by challenging perceptions of health, competence, and identity. The physical manifestations of illness often bring with them a multitude of symptoms and limitations that can drastically alter how individuals perceive themselves. Symptoms such as chronic pain, fatigue, or mobility impairments not only challenge one’s physical capabilities but also chip away at their sense of autonomy and self-reliance. Tasks that were once mundane may now feel like insurmountable obstacles, leading to feelings of frustration, inadequacy, and a profound sense of loss. Moreover, changes in physical appearance resulting from illness or treatment can trigger a profound upheaval in body image and self-esteem. Individuals may find themselves grappling with feelings of shame, embarrassment, or even disgust as they confront a body that no longer aligns with their sense of self.
Functionally, illness-induced impairments can disrupt not only one’s daily routines but also their social roles and relationships. The inability to perform familiar tasks or fulfill expected roles, such as caregiving or financially providing for their families, can leave individuals feeling stripped of their sense of purpose and contribution. Additionally, illness-related functional limitations may prompt shifts in social dynamics, leading to feelings of isolation, alienation, or perceived burdensomeness. The erosion of social connections and the perceived loss of identity within social circles can exacerbate feelings of loneliness and further strain one’s self-concept.
Amid the turmoil of illness, individuals may employ various coping mechanisms to navigate the emotional landscape. Adaptive coping strategies, such as seeking social support and acceptance, and finding meaning in illness experiences, can serve as pillars of resilience, buffering against the negative impacts of illness on self-concept. Conversely, maladaptive coping mechanisms, such as denial, avoidance, or self-blame, may exacerbate feelings of distress and further erode self-esteem and self-worth.
The emotional toll of illness extends beyond the physical realm, infiltrating the core of one’s being. Fear, anxiety, and despair can permeate every aspect of life, affecting perceptions of oneself and one’s capabilities. These negative emotions can take a significant toll on mental health and can potentially result in mood disturbances, such as depression.
Clinical Judgment Measurement Model
Form a Hypothesis: Unveiling the Impact of Illness on Self-Concept
Scenario: Imagine a middle-aged patient named John who has recently been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. Prior to his diagnosis, John saw himself as an active and independent individual, always taking care of his family and excelling in his career. However, with the onset of his illness, John’s sense of self undergoes a significant transformation. He begins to feel like a burden to his family, as he now requires assistance with daily tasks that he once took for granted. Additionally, the physical limitations imposed by his illness prevent him from engaging in activities he used to enjoy, leading to feelings of frustration and helplessness. Over time, John’s self-concept shifts as he grapples with the loss of his previous identity and struggles to redefine himself in the context of his illness. Despite these challenges, John gradually learns to accept support from his loved ones and discovers new ways to find purpose and meaning in his life, ultimately reshaping his self-concept to incorporate his experiences with illness.
- Identifying cues: John’s change in behavior, such as withdrawing from activities he once enjoyed and expressing feelings of frustration and helplessness, are cues that suggest a shift in his self-concept. Additionally, his perception of himself as a burden to his family indicates a negative impact on his self-image. These cues may indicate a struggle to reconcile his previous identity with the challenges imposed by his illness.
- Analyzing cues: The cues observed in John’s behavior and self-perception suggest a disruption in his self-concept due to the onset of a chronic illness. His withdrawal from activities and feelings of frustration may stem from a loss of independence and the inability to engage in previously valued roles and activities. Furthermore, his perception of being a burden may indicate feelings of guilt and inadequacy, which can further erode his sense of self-worth and identity.
- Forming hypothesis: Based on the identified cues and analysis, a hypothesis could be formulated that John’s self-concept has been significantly impacted by his chronic illness. The hypothesis may propose that John is experiencing a period of adjustment and identity redefinition as he navigates the challenges imposed by his illness. Furthermore, it may suggest that John’s struggle to maintain a positive self-concept is influenced by societal expectations of independence and self-sufficiency, which are challenged by his illness. This hypothesis would guide further assessment and intervention to support John in coping with his illness and rebuilding his sense of self.
Cultural and Behavioral Factors
Cultural and behavioral factors affect an individual’s self-concept, influencing not only how they perceive themselves but also how they navigate their interactions with others and the world around them. Cultural norms and values provide a framework within which individuals develop their understanding of identity, morality, and social roles, influencing behaviors and attitudes from early childhood onward. Meanwhile, behavioral patterns, encompassing a diverse range of actions and interactions, further contribute to the formation of self-concept. These factors interact in complex ways, with socialization processes, family dynamics, media exposure, and individual experiences all playing roles in shaping self-perception. From traditional cultural practices to contemporary influences like social media, these factors collectively shape individuals’ sense of identity, belonging, and self-worth, highlighting the dynamic interplay between societal expectations and personal identity. Understanding the impact of cultural and behavioral factors on self-concept provides valuable insights into the complexities of human identity and the ways in which individuals navigate their social and cultural contexts.
Cultural Norms and Values
Cultural norms and values serve as the guiding principles that shape individuals’ understanding of their identity, morality, and social roles within their communities. These norms are often deeply ingrained and transmitted through generations. For instance, in cultures where collectivism is emphasized, individuals may prioritize the needs of the group over personal desires, fostering a sense of interconnectedness and communal identity. In contrast, cultures that value individualism may encourage self-expression, autonomy, and the pursuit of personal goals.
Socialization processes further reinforce cultural norms and expectations, providing individuals with a framework in relation to others. Family, as the primary agent of socialization, plays a pivotal role in transmitting cultural values and traditions to younger generations. Parents, siblings, and extended family members impart cultural knowledge through language, customs, and rituals, instilling a sense of cultural identity and belonging within individuals. Additionally, educational institutions, peer groups, and media representations reinforce cultural narratives and ideals. Through these interactions, individuals internalize societal norms and expectations, incorporating them into their self-concept.
Social media is a significant influencer of self-concept. Through social media, individuals interact more with others, learning how others behave and organize their lives. Social media also provides an overwhelming collection of information, including material from questionable sources. Social media motivates individuals to compare themselves to others. If these comparisons are favorable, individuals tend to have a more positive self-concept. If the comparisons are unfavorable, individuals may have a more negative self-concept. Social media’s impact on users can be powerful, even shaping the way individuals construct their identities (Ruther et al., 2023).
Link to Learning
Learning more about how social media affects individuals can provide insight into the cultural and behavioral factors that affect self-concept.
Social comparison processes further refine self-concept by providing individuals with reference points for evaluating their own attributes and achievements and measuring their own worth. For example, in cultures where material wealth and status are prized, individuals may equate success with financial achievement and social recognition, shaping their self-concept around notions of wealth and prestige. Conversely, in cultures that prioritize spiritual fulfillment and communal well-being, individuals may derive their sense of self-worth from their contributions to the community and adherence to ethical principles.
Cultural identity and ethnicity shape self-concept, particularly for individuals from underrepresented groups. Cultural identity encompasses shared beliefs, traditions, and values that provide a sense of belonging and connection to one’s heritage. For members of underrepresented communities, cultural identity serves as a source of pride and resilience, offering a sense of solidarity and empowerment in the face of discrimination and adversity. However, experiences of prejudice, discrimination, and marginalization can impact self-esteem and contribute to negative self-perceptions, highlighting the complex interplay between cultural identity and self-concept.
Acculturation and adaptation processes are central for individuals navigating multiple cultural contexts, such as immigrants. Acculturation involves balancing the preservation of one’s cultural heritage with the adoption of the dominant culture’s norms and practices, leading to a negotiation of identity and the development of hybrid identities that reflect a synthesis of cultural influences. However, experiences of acculturative stress, discrimination, and identity conflict can impact self-concept and mental health outcomes, highlighting the complexities of cultural adaptation.
Gender Roles and Expectations
Gender roles and expectations exert a profound influence on one’s self-concept, shaping beliefs about identity, behavior, and social roles based on perceived gender. From early childhood, individuals are socialized into gendered norms and stereotypes that dictate appropriate roles, behaviors, and interests for males and females. Young males may be encouraged to be assertive, independent, and competitive, while young females may be socialized to be nurturing, empathetic, and accommodating. These gendered expectations are reinforced through various socialization agents, including family, peers, educational institutions, and media representations, perpetuating a binary understanding of gender and reinforcing traditional gender norms. As individuals internalize these societal messages, they construct their self-concept around notions of masculinity and femininity, which influence various aspects of their lives, including career aspirations, interpersonal relationships, and body image. Deviations from gender norms may be met with social sanctions or stigma, leading individuals to conform to societal expectations to maintain a positive self-concept.
Patient Conversations
Empowering Patients: Addressing Gendered Expectations in Self-Concept
Scenario: During a routine checkup at the clinic, the nurse notices that a young patient, Sam, seems withdrawn and tense. Sam is fidgeting with his hands and avoiding eye contact as he waits for his appointment.
Patient: I’ve been feeling really overwhelmed lately, but I just can’t seem to open up about it.
Nurse: It sounds like you’re going through a tough time. Would you like to talk about what’s been bothering you?
Patient: I don't know. . . . It’s just that I’ve always been taught to be strong and not show any weakness. But lately, everything feels like it’s piling up, and I’m not sure how to handle it.
Nurse: It’s okay to feel overwhelmed sometimes. It’s natural to need support, regardless of gender. You don’t have to carry everything alone.
Patient: I know, but it’s hard to break out of those expectations. Growing up, I was always told that boys don’t cry or ask for help. It’s like I’ve internalized those messages, and now I’m struggling to reach out.
Nurse: It’s common for societal expectations around gender roles to influence how we perceive ourselves and how we express our emotions. But it’s important to remember that seeking help doesn’t make you any less strong or capable. In fact, it takes courage to reach out when you’re struggling.
Patient: Yeah, you’re right. I guess I’ve just been holding onto these beliefs for so long that I didn’t even realize how much they were affecting me.
Nurse: It’s a process, and it takes time to challenge those ingrained beliefs. But know that you’re not alone, and I’m here to support you every step of the way.
Scenario follow-up: This conversation highlights how societal expectations surrounding gender roles can influence an individual’s self-concept and willingness to seek help, even in moments of distress. By acknowledging these influences and providing support, the nurse helps the patient navigate their struggles with greater awareness and resilience.
Social Behavior
Behavioral factors, comprising a diverse array of actions, habits, and interactions, affect one’s self-concept. Social behavior, for example, serves as both a mirror and a lens through which individuals view themselves. Positive social interactions, characterized by warmth, acceptance, and affirmation, contribute to feelings of belonging and acceptance, bolstering self-esteem and reinforcing a positive self-concept. Conversely, negative social experiences, such as rejection or ostracism, can inflict wounds upon the psyche, fostering feelings of isolation, unworthiness, and social anxiety. The quality of interpersonal relationships, therefore, plays a pivotal role in shaping self-concept, as individuals internalize feedback from others and construct narratives about their own social worth.
Health behaviors, encompassing actions related to physical and mental well-being, also exert a significant influence on self-concept. Engaging in behaviors that promote health and vitality, such as regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and adequate sleep, fosters a sense of self-efficacy and mastery over one’s body and mind. Conversely, neglecting self-care practices or engaging in unhealthy habits may engender feelings of guilt, shame, or self-blame, tarnishing perceptions of self-worth and contributing to a negative self-concept. The connection between physical and psychological well-being underscores the importance of holistic self-care in nurturing a positive self-concept.
Behavioral factors encompass individuals’ coping strategies and regulatory mechanisms, which influence how they navigate life’s challenges and adversities. Effective coping strategies, such as problem-solving, seeking social support, and engaging in relaxation techniques, enhance resilience and promote a sense of agency in the face of adversity. By contrast, maladaptive coping mechanisms, such as avoidance or denial, may exacerbate feelings of helplessness and undermine self-concept. The ways individuals regulate their behavior in response to stressors, therefore, play a crucial role in shaping perceptions of competence, control, and self-efficacy.
Self-concept is also shaped by how individuals present themselves to others and express their identities. Clothing choices, grooming habits, and nonverbal behaviors serve as outward manifestations of internal self-concept, shaping how individuals are perceived and treated by others. Engaging in activities and hobbies that align with personal interests and values allows individuals to express their authentic selves, fostering a sense of congruence and authenticity in their self-concept. Furthermore, the seeking and processing of feedback from others contribute to the development and refinement of self-concept, as individuals selectively attend to or discount feedback based on their own beliefs and biases.