1. THE SELF Sources of Self-Knowledge Aspects of Self-Knowledge
Presenting the Self
Psych Prof. Chen

2. Aspects of Self-Knowledge: Self Schemas
Describe the dimensions along which you think about yourself
Tend to possess ones for dimensions that are important, on which you see yourself as extreme, and on which you’re sure you are not the opposite
Influence perceptions, interpretations, and judgments, just like any other schema
e.g., more likely to notice information relevant to self schemas
Psych Prof. Chen

3. Aspects of Self-Knowledge: Self-Complexity
Self-Complexity Theory (Linville & colleagues)
Self is cognitively represented in terms of multiple aspects
Self-aspects vary in the affect associated w/ them.
Degree of complexity in the self varies.
Psych Prof. Chen

4. Self-complexity is defined by:
(1) # of different self-aspects
(2) degree of overlap (i.e.,distinctiveness) of self-aspects
High self-complexity = large # of distinct self aspects
Low self-complexity = small # of non-distinct self aspects
Psych Prof. Chen

5. Macey Angelina LEADER SELF authoritative rational serious DANCER SELF
creative
free-spirited
emotional
LEADER
SELF
authoritative
concerned
supportive
FRIEND
SELF
agreeable
concerned
supportive
FRIEND
SELF
agreeable
concerned
supportive
Psych Prof. Chen

6. Self-Complexity Theory
Central Hypothesis
Degree of self-complexity related to how people feel in response to + & - events related to the self
Low self-complexity = more extreme swings in affect & self-evaluation
Psych Prof. Chen

7. Macey Angelina LEADER SELF authoritative rational serious DANCER SELF
creative
free-spirited
emotional
LEADER
SELF
authoritative
concerned
supportive
FRIEND
SELF
agreeable
concerned
supportive
FRIEND
SELF
agreeable
concerned
supportive
Psych Prof. Chen