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Understanding Self-Identity and Self-Esteem

Mar 26, 2025

The Self - Annenberg Learner

Discovering Psychology Series: The Self

  • Episode 15 in the Discovering Psychology series.
  • Focuses on the study of self-identity, self-esteem, and social determinants of self-concepts.
  • Explores emotional and motivational consequences of self-esteem.

Key Concepts

Self-Efficacy and Performance

  • Albert Bandura’s research highlights the role of self-efficacy—the belief in one's ability to control situations.
  • Experiment: Subjects tasked with improving production at a model factory.
    • First Subject: Believed decision-making was based on innate intelligence; cautious, frustrated, and efficacy decreased.
    • Second Subject: Viewed decision-making as a skill to be learned; performance improved, set higher goals.
  • Conclusion: Effectiveness of abilities depends on self-perception.

Glossary of Terms

  • Ego: Manages self-preservation and directs instincts into social channels.
  • Id: Primitive, unconscious aspect acting on impulse.
  • Individuation: Personal growth and separation process.
  • Self-Concept: Awareness of identity continuity.
  • Strategic Self-Presentation: Awareness of social self-concept aspects.
  • Superego: Represents internalized societal values and morals.
  • Theory of Self-Efficacy: Belief in adequate performance ability.

Related Series Units

  • Unit 0-26: Covering topics from history of psychology, brain function, development, to cultural psychology.

Additional Resources

Production Details

  • Produced by WGBH Boston with the American Psychological Association (1990, 2001).
  • ISBN: 1-57680-414-3

Access and Further Learning

  • Available resources for classroom, professional development, and podcasts.
  • Series encourages exploration of psychology in practical applications and research.
  • Visit Annenberg Learner for more information.