Self-concept refers to ____. a. our level of confidence in our own abilities b. all of our thoughts and feelings about ourselves c. the belief that we control our own outcomes d. the belief that our outcomes are outside of our control
The correct answer and explanation is:
Correct Answer: b. all of our thoughts and feelings about ourselves
Explanation:
Self-concept refers to the comprehensive image we hold of ourselves. It encompasses all of our thoughts, perceptions, and feelings about who we are. This includes our beliefs about our personality traits, abilities, roles, values, and even how we believe others see us. It is a central part of our identity and plays a crucial role in shaping our behavior, motivations, and how we relate to others.
Unlike self-esteem, which specifically relates to how we feel about ourselves (whether we view ourselves positively or negatively), self-concept is broader. It includes both evaluative and descriptive components. For example, someone’s self-concept may include the belief that they are a good listener (a descriptive trait), and also that being a good listener makes them a kind and helpful person (an evaluative perspective).
Self-concept develops over time, shaped by experiences, feedback from others, cultural influences, and introspection. Early in life, it’s heavily influenced by interactions with parents and caregivers. As we grow older, our relationships with peers, social roles, and successes or failures further mold this inner picture. For instance, being told consistently that you’re smart or talented in a certain area may lead you to integrate those traits into your self-concept.
Importantly, self-concept is not static; it can evolve as we encounter new situations or reflect deeply on who we are. A healthy, realistic self-concept contributes to psychological well-being, while a fragmented or overly negative one can lead to difficulties in self-esteem, relationships, and emotional regulation.
In contrast, options a, c, and d refer to other psychological concepts:
- a is self-efficacy,
- c refers to an internal locus of control,
- d refers to an external locus of control.
Thus, option b correctly defines self-concept.