The Reflexive Self (Self-image and Self-concept)

According to Kinch, et al. self-image is a representation of the self that changes with different
situations and different expectations. This definition is proven simply by reflecting upon
ourselves and asking who we really are. While self-concept is an idea of the self-constructed
from the beliefs one holds about oneself and the responses of others. Since self-image and self-
concept is strongly associated with each other, we came up with the idea of putting them in one
scenario.

Our situational stand of a self-image and self-concept is based on one of the happenings on social
media about us having an experience in being manipulated. All of us here have met someone
who manipulates us to do things that we really didn't want to do — or not to do anything that we
really wanted to do — And now we doubt our own perspectives even if it's not something we see
in ourselves. Talking about social media, we would like to relate our topic here because us,
individually have experienced a lot about the latest news, which is the PH Government. People
are gone wild, and mostly are just clearly following the trend (regardless if their norms are
good and bad) they will still push people to follow their lead. And if we did not, they will label
us into something we are not. That is where the self-concept takes place. According to Henry
Longfellow; “We judge ourselves by what we feel capable of doing, while others judge us by
what we have already done.” One cause may be that we’re too eager for positive affection and
adoration (because we haven't gotten it as a kid, or we don't get it from a significant current
relationship), that when the manipulator flatters us or asks us how great, awesome and special
we’re to handle them differently than others, we’re lapping it up. It can appeal to an egotism in
us that we think to ourselves, "I'm unique because I see the goodness that no one else does in this
person." And we proceed to suck it up, which sets the way for us thinking like we owe them
anything in exchange, or we would feel bad if you failed them. We experienced certain feelings
that are more deeply negative and bleak, it is clearly in contrast with our ability to think that we
are good, loving, and benevolent. Feeling those negative, or even aggressive, emotions will cause
not only remorse but even embarrassment, for being such an angry individual. In here, we have
realized that a positive self-image is important. The longer we reflect, the easier we heal. It took
us a lot of courage to redeem and trust ourselves fully. Seeking to create healthy partnerships and
moving away from the individuals who put us down really goes a long way in improving our
self-image.

Buenaventura, Anne Marieline C.

Avena, Christian
Alejandrino, John Lexel
Questions:

a. How were you able to come up with your examples? What may be the reason for
choosing these examples?

We first put up a poll about several topics and we ended up talking about what is trending
in social media. While we are all enjoying the talk, we have noticed that we’re all in the
same page that’s why we all came up with this topic.

b. Which of the two components assigned to your group you think has the greatest
influence on the development of one’s self? Why?

We believe that we struggle most in our self-image because it is yet another of the self-
concept essential. We do recognize, though, that self-image is founded on our views of
reality, that it is formed up over a period, and tends to evolve when we do, and that we
have certain control on this.

c. What are the positive and negative effects of the Reflexive Self components assigned to
you? List down at least 2 for each component and explain each.

Our self-images may rather be optimistic, giving us trust about our thoughts and
behavior. These might sound such small things, but really, they are huge things. Doing
anything positive is a sure sign of a good self-image, like behaving calmly without
becoming bossy or feeling guilty. On the other hand, being pessimistic, leaving us
uncertain regarding our abilities and ideas. Poor self-image as you would assume may
also be a guiding force and/or a symptom of depression. When we feel bad about
ourselves it is normal that we will suffer from our view of ourselves. Likewise, when our
self-image takes on a blow, we tend to feel terrible about ourselves and our lives.

A positive effect of self-concept will help you move ahead of life. It will encourage you
to optimize your ability and leverage your strengths, skills and abilities to the fullest. On
the other hand, the progress would be slowed by a poor self-concept. In general, a weak
sense of self is more likely to contribute to self-sabotaging behavior. As a result, you will

Buenaventura, Anne Marieline C.

Avena, Christian
Alejandrino, John Lexel
 be unable to pursue your acts straight. You will also struggle to meet the objectives and
ambitions you have for yourself.

d. Why is social interaction very important in reflecting to one’s self?

Interactions with others have been proposed as playing a crucial role in creating self-
agency. In helping the learner coordinate their ideas, focus on their thinking, and identify
holes in their logic, engaging with other people has proven very successful. Within the
broad variety of social experiences and learning, alternatives may differ from peer
instruction, mutual teaching, instruction by schooling, teaching by observing, learning by
performing, and self-monitoring. In scholarship these fields intersect and are also an ideal
place to help students understand.

Citations:

21 Self-Image Examples and Activities to Use the Theory Today. (2020, March 18). Retrieved from
https://positivepsychology.com/self-image-examples-activities/

Self-Concept: Self-Image, Ideal Self, and Self-Esteem. (n.d.). Retrieved from

http://practicewisdom.blogspot.com/2013/06/self-concept-self-image-ideal-self-and.html

Zeeshan, M. (2017, April 30). Reflection - Society, Social Structure, Social Interaction & Groups
and Organizations. Retrieved from https://medium.com/@muhammad.zeeshan/reflection-
society-social-structure-social-interaction-groups-and-organizations-1c1ad6a6c74

Buenaventura, Anne Marieline C.

Avena, Christian
Alejandrino, John Lexel