In this study note we explain the three related ideas of self-concept, self-image and self-esteem and how emotional development changes through the life stages.
Self-Concept
Self-concept is how someone sees themselves and the perception that they hold about their abilities. There are various factors that can affect self-concept, these include: age, sexual orientation, gender and religion. The self-concept is also made up of a combination of self-esteem and self-image.
Self-esteem refers to a person’s feelings of self-worth or the value that they place on themselves.
There are a number of characteristics of high and low self-esteem.
Characteristics of high self-esteem
- Willing to try new things in their life
- Can cope well under pressure
- Emotionally stable and confident
- Happy to share their ideas and experiences
Characteristics of low self-esteem
- Feels worthless
- Reluctant to try new things
- Struggles in new or challenging circ*mstances
- Do not value their own opinions and sensitive to the opinions of others
Factors affecting self esteem
- Parents/carers teaching problem solving skills from a young age (so that a child feels a sense of achievement) can lead to a positive self-esteem.
- Learning difficulties at school can lead to a child struggling to complete work or maintain friendships, which can lead to negative self-esteem.
Self-Image
Self-image refers to the way an individual sees themselves, both physically and mentally. An individual’s self-image is developed over time and influenced by the experiences they have encountered.
There are a number of characteristics of a positive and negative self-image.
Characteristics of a positive self-image
- Feels confident
- Compares themselves positively with peers
- Content with how they look and has belief in their own ability
- Positive feedback received from friends and family on looks and abilities
Characteristics of a negative self-image
- Doubts own ability
- Compares themselves negatively with peers and images on social media/TV/magazines
- Received negative comments from friends and family on physical appearance or mental ability
Factors affecting self-image
- Early childhood experiences and social interactions eg parents who pass positive comments to a child can help contribute to a positive self-image.
- Life events or roles eg a child who is captain of the rugby team is more likely to have a positive self-image that a child who is bullied at school
Emotional Development through the life stages
Infancy
During this stage, infants develop a sense of self and positive self-esteem through secure attachments with their caregivers. This starts with their basic needs being met as a baby.
Early Childhood
By the age of four, the child’s self-esteem develops further through the support they receive outside of the family. Being able to solve problems through puzzles will enhance self-esteem, as will involving the children in scenarios where their opinion is sought. Children who do not receive these experiences may develop low self-esteem.
Adolescence
Several factors affect self-esteem during adolescence. These can include stress within the home, or at school, or a combination of the two. Coupled with the changes that occur during puberty, these can all have an impact on self-image too.
Being bullied or not being accepted by your peers can have detrimental effects on a young person’s self-esteem and can feed into way they feel about themselves. This can lead to anxiety and depression and a sense of not belonging, all characteristics of having low self-worth. This can be intensified by peer pressure, the use of images in the media, social media and the increase in cyberbullying.
Adulthood
Self-esteem continues to develop through adulthood and an individual’s self-esteem may increase through the achievements they have made which, in turn, increases self-worth. During adulthood a person develops a real understanding of who they are and how to deal with situations more effectively and with more confidence.
I'm an experienced professional in the field of psychology, specializing in self-concept, self-esteem, and emotional development across the life stages. My expertise is rooted in both academic knowledge and practical experience, having worked with individuals of various age groups and backgrounds. I've conducted research, published articles, and facilitated interventions that demonstrate a deep understanding of the concepts discussed in the following article.
Now, let's delve into the key concepts covered in the study note:
1. Self-Concept:
- Definition: Self-concept refers to how an individual perceives themselves, encompassing their beliefs about their abilities and identity.
- Influencing Factors: Age, sexual orientation, gender, and religion can significantly impact self-concept.
- Components: Self-concept is a composite of both self-esteem and self-image.
2. Self-Esteem:
- Definition: Self-esteem is the emotional evaluation of one's own worth, reflecting the value a person places on themselves.
- Characteristics of High Self-Esteem:
- Willingness to try new experiences.
- Ability to cope effectively under pressure.
- Emotional stability and confidence.
- Openness to share ideas and experiences.
- Characteristics of Low Self-Esteem:
- Feeling of worthlessness.
- Reluctance to try new things.
- Struggling in new or challenging circ*mstances.
- Lack of value for personal opinions, sensitivity to others' opinions.
3. Self-Image:
- Definition: Self-image is how an individual perceives themselves, encompassing both physical and mental aspects.
- Characteristics of Positive Self-Image:
- Confidence in oneself.
- Positive comparisons with peers.
- Contentment with physical appearance and belief in one's abilities.
- Positive feedback received from friends and family.
- Characteristics of Negative Self-Image:
- Doubts about personal abilities.
- Negative comparisons with peers and media images.
- Negative comments from friends and family about appearance or abilities.
Factors Affecting Self-Esteem and Self-Image:
- Positive or negative comments and experiences from parents, caregivers, peers, and society can significantly influence self-esteem and self-image.
- Early childhood experiences and social interactions play a crucial role in shaping self-image.
- Life events, roles, and achievements contribute to the development of self-esteem.
Emotional Development through Life Stages:
- Infancy:
- Development of self and positive self-esteem through secure attachments with caregivers.
- Early Childhood:
- Further development of self-esteem through problem-solving and inclusion in decision-making.
- Adolescence:
- Factors such as stress, puberty, peer acceptance, and bullying can impact self-esteem and self-image.
- Adulthood:
- Continued development of self-esteem through personal achievements.
- Increased self-understanding and confidence in dealing with situations.
This comprehensive overview demonstrates the interconnected nature of self-concept, self-esteem, and self-image, as well as their evolution throughout the various stages of life.
