Psychological Perspectives and Understanding the Self

Introduction

• Discussion on psychological perspectives in Western and Eastern thought.
• Aim: To understand concepts of the self and personality development influenced by society.

Learning Outcomes

• Identify and define the concepts of the self as a cognitive construction.
• Outline the concepts of the self in Western and Eastern thought.
• Recognize how psychological concepts influence personality development.

Childhood and Personality

• Philosophy answers "Who am I?" from metaphysical and epistemological views.
• Psychology addresses thoughts and emotions of individuals in society.
• Individual identity formed through influences from family, peers, and society.
• Lifespan development from childhood to old age influences personality.
• Self-reflection encourages identity questioning (e.g., "Who am I?").

Sigmund Freud's Theories

• Freud: Father of Psychology; developed personality theories.
• Three Parts of the Self:
  • Id: Instinctual desires (unconscious).
  • Ego: Rational self (conscious).
  • Superego: Moral conscience (pre-conscious).
• Iceberg Model:
  • Conscious: Tip of the iceberg.
  • Pre-conscious: Retrievable memories.
  • Unconscious: Drives and motives influencing behavior.

Defense Mechanisms

• Coping Mechanisms: Used during difficult times; 12 identified by Freud.

1. Compensation: Hiding weaknesses by emphasizing strengths.
2. Denial: Refusal to accept reality.
3. Displacement: Redirecting emotions to a safer target.
4. Introjection: Conforming feelings for approval.
5. Projection: Seeing one's faults in others.
6. Rationalization: Justifying mistakes.
7. Reaction Formation: Acting opposite to true feelings.
8. Regression: Reverting to earlier behaviors.
9. Repression: Keeping negative feelings inside.
10. Ritual and Undoing: Replacing negative habits with positive ones.

Freud's Topographical Model of the Mind

• Conscious: Current thoughts.
• Pre-conscious: Accessible memories.
• Unconscious: Drives underlying most behaviors.

Self-Consciousness

• William James: "I" self (subject) vs. "Me" self (object).
• Self-Concept Components:
  • Self-image: How one sees themselves.
  • Ideal self: Who one wishes to be.
  • Self-esteem: Perceived worth.

Psychological Differentiation

• Differentiation involves breaking from destructive thoughts and recognizing one's values.
• Four Steps:
  1. Breaking with destructive thoughts.
  2. Changing negative traits.
  3. Understanding psychological defenses.
  4. Developing personal values.

True vs. False Self

• True Self: Authentic identity.
• False Self: Adapted identity for societal acceptance.

Individualism vs. Collectivism

• Individualist: Motivated by personal rewards, values autonomy.
• Collectivist: Motivated by group goals, values long-term relationships.

Western vs. Eastern Thought

• Western:
  • René Descartes: "I think, therefore I am"; rational, individualistic view.
• Eastern:
  • Confucius: Emphasis on morality and culture.
  • Buddha: Focus on compassion and consciousness.
  • Hinduism: Karma influences actions across lifetimes.
  • Taoism: Balance of opposites (Yin and Yang).

Conclusion

• Activity: Describe an idol and define beauty.
• Clarifications and questions to be submitted in Google Classroom.
• Encouragement to reflect on the lesson and understand the self.