Character theory of self
Character theory of the self views character as the stable patterns of behavior, thought, and motivation that constitute a person’s identity, shaped by both innate qualities and life experiences. Theories explore how this character is formed through psychological drives, social interactions, and the pursuit of an ideal self. A healthy character is often associated with congruence between one’s real and ideal self, emotional regulation, and a sense of moral responsibility, while a negative self-concept can lead to feelings of unhappiness and insecurity.
Key theories and concepts
Psychoanalytic theory: Character is shaped by a person’s efforts to manage internal conflicts and desires within societal constraints. A well-developed character allows for flexibility, while a rigid one can lead to struggles with emotional regulation and relationships.
Social and Symbolic Interactionism: From this perspective, the self is a social construct that emerges from interactions with others.
Mead’s “I” and “me”: The “me” is the internalized social expectations and behaviors, while the “I” is the individual’s unique response to them. The “self” is a balance between the two.
Cooley’s “looking-glass self”: The self develops through a three-stage process: imagining how one appears to others, imagining how others judge that appearance, and developing feelings about oneself based on those perceived judgments.
Humanistic psychology (Carl Rogers):
- Real vs. Ideal Self: Rogers distinguished between the “real self” (who you actually are) and the “ideal self” (who you want to become).
- Congruence: A state of consistency between the real and ideal self leads to a healthy self-concept and high self-worth
- Incongruence: A significant gap between the real and ideal selves can lead to maladjustment.
self-discrepancy theory: This theory suggests that a discrepancy between one’s “actual self” and their “ought self” (what they believe they should be) is linked to negative emotions like guilt and self-dissatisfaction.
Possible selves theory: This proposes that our identity is influenced by our visions of a positive “ideal self” and a negative “dread self.” We are motivated to move toward our ideal self and away from our dread self.
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[1] https://chicagoanalysis.org/blog/psychoanalysis/character-development/
[2] https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0883035597000530
[5] https://study.com/academy/lesson/george-herbert-mead-the-self-me-i.html
[6] https://www.verywellmind.com/fromms-five-character-orientations-2795956