1. Chapter 3: The Social Self
Part 1: Jan. 31, 2012

2. Self-Concept Beliefs we have about ourselves
Self-schemas are part of this:
Recognize images of ourselves betw mos.
Then, social factors become important
5 main sources of forming the self-concept:
Introspection, perceptions of our behavior, others’ influence, memories, & culture

3. Sources Introspection – consider your own feelings
But may be difficult to describe accurately
What is “Affective forecasting”?
Impact bias?
Perceptions of our own behavior:
Bem’s self-perception theory: what is it?

4. Self-perception can influence our emotions
Facial Feedback – changes in facial expression can trigger change in our emotion
Example?
New research on ‘embodied cognition’ – our judgments and behaviors reflect our body’s cues
Examples?

5. Self-perception can influence our motivation
Overjustification effect – what is it?
Children’s motivation research:

6. 3. Influence of other people –
Social comparison theory (Festinger):
When is this most often used?
With whom do we compare ourselves?
Effects of context:

7. 4. Autobiographical memories –
Recall earlier events to shape self-concept:
What stages tend to be recalled? 1. 2.
What is the effect of ‘flashbulb memories’?
may not be accurate (self-presentation effects)

8. Culture & self-concept:
Individualism (I) vs. collectivism (C)
I cultures =
C cultures =
What is the focus of self-definitions in these cultures?
Markus’ research on the self as part of a group: