Chapter 43Self-Concept

Self-ConceptSelf-concept is an individuals perception of self and is what helps make each individual unique.Positive and negative self-assessments in the physical, emotional, intellectual, and functional dimensions change over time.Self-concept affects the ability to function and greatly influences health status.

Dimensions of Self-ConceptSelf-knowledge Who am I? Self-expectation Who or what do I want to be?Social self How person perceived by others? Self-evaluation How well do I like myself?

Self knowledge Global self: is the term used to describe the composite of all basic facts, qualities, traits, images and feelings one holds about oneself.It includes: Basic facts: sex, age, race, occupation, cultural background, sexual orientation Persons position with social groups Qualities or traits that describe typical behaviours, feelings, moods and other characteristics (generous, hot-headed , ambitious, intelligent, sexy

Self expectations Expectations for self flow from various sources. The ideal self constitutes the self one want to be. Self expectations develop unconsciously early in childhood and are based on image of role models such as parents

Self evaluation Self esteem is the evaluative and affective component of self concept Maslows Subsets of Esteem Needs:Self-esteem (strength, achievement, mastery, competence, ..)Respect needs or the need for esteem from others

Components of Self-ConceptIdentityBody imageSelf-esteemRole performance

Interrelationship of Components of Self-Concept

Components of Self-Concept A sense of personal identity is what sets one person apart as a unique individual.Identity includes a persons name, gender, ethnic identity, family status, occupation, and roles.Ones personal identity begins to develop during childhood and is constantly reinforced and modified throughout life.

Components of Self-ConceptBody image is an attitude about ones physical attributes and characteristics, appearance, and performance.Body image is dynamic because any change in body structure or function, including the normal changes of growth and development, can affect it.

Components of Self-ConceptSelf-Ideal is the perception of behavior based on personal standards and self-expectations.Self-ideal serves as an internal regulator to support self-respect and self-esteem.

Components of Self-ConceptSelf-esteem is the judgment of personal performance compared with the self-ideal.Self-esteem is derived from a sense of giving and receiving love, and being respected by others.

Components of Self-ConceptRole refers to a set of expected behaviors determined by familial, cultural, and social norms.The level of self-esteem is dependent upon the self-perception of adequate role performance in these various social roles.

Components of Self-ConceptStressors Affecting Role PerformanceRole overloadRole conflictWhenever a person is unable to fulfill role responsibilities, self-concept is impaired.

Development of Self-ConceptSelf-concept evolves throughout life and depends to an extent on an individuals developmental level.

Formation of Self-ConceptInfant learns physical self different from environment.If basic needs are met, child has positive feelings of self.Child internalizes others peoples attitudes toward self.Child or adult internalizes standards of society.

Stages in Development of SelfSelf-awareness (infancy)Self-recognition (18 months)Self-definition (3 years)Self-concept (6 to 7 years)

Factors Affecting Self-ConceptAltered Health StatusExperienceDevelopmental considerationsCultureInternal and external resourcesHistory of success and failureCrisis or life stressorsAging, illness, or trauma

AssessmentAssess the clients strengths to be used as a foundation on which to build therapeutic interventions.Maintain appropriate relationshipsCare for self in order to meet basic needsAdapt to stressors in a positive manner

Nursing DiagnosesDisturbed Body ImageParental Role ConflictDisturbed Personal IdentityIneffective Role PerformanceChronic Low Self-EsteemSituational Low Self-Esteem

Nursing DiagnosesDisturbed Personal IdentityAnxietySocial IsolationHopelessnessPowerlessness

ImplementationInitiate Therapeutic InteractionSupport Healthy Defense MechanismsEnsure Satisfaction of NeedsPhysical needsPsychosocial needs

Helping Patients Maintain Sense of SelfCommunicate worth with looks, speech, and judicious touch.Acknowledge patient status, role, and individuality.Speak to patient respectfully.Offer simple explanations for procedures.Move patients body respectfully if necessary.Respect patients privacy and sensibilities.Acknowledge and allow expression of negative feelings.Help patients recognize strengths and explore alternatives.