Your self-concept is the relatively stable set of perceptions that you hold of yourself. The self-concept includes our conception of what is unique about us and what makes us both similar and different from others. To gain an understanding of how this theoretical concept applies to you, you will write an original 3-5 page paper that effectively answers the questions listed below. Read Chapter 2 closely (The Self-Concept Defined) before writing your paper, and use as many effective examples (from your own life experience) as possible:
- Answer the question “Who are you?” by listing and discussing traits and characteristics that describe you. Consider the following: a) Physical characteristics, b) Social traits, c) Social roles, d) Defining interests, e) Talents you possess (or lack thereof) f) Your belief systems
- How does your self-esteem influence your self-concept?
- How do significant others influence your self-concept?
- How does culture influence your self-concept?
- How does your self-concept influence your communication with others?
- How might your self-concept influence your future communication and behavior?
A minimum of two authoritative sources are required, and must include each of the following:
- An in-person interview that you conduct yourself to learn more about your early life experiences and the role others played in the development of your self-concept; the interviewee should be a family member, friend, or mentor who knew you well when you were younger (preferably, when you were a child)
- An authoritative book or article (if you’re not sure if a source is authoritative, consult me). You can use our book as your authoritative book.
Chapter Objectives
After researching, writing and submitting the self-concept paper, you should be able to:
- Describe the perception process and utilize self-monitoring skills to become effective communicators.
- Define the major stages of perception.
- Explain personality traits.
- Explain how your self-esteem influences your self-concept.
- Explain how significant others influence your self-concept.
- Explain how culture influences your self-concept.
Course Objectives
- Students will recognize and accommodate gender and cultural differences in communication settings and appreciate diverse communication styles.
- Students will describe the perception process and utilize self-monitoring skills to become effective communicators.
