Self-Image: A Comprehensive Review
Abstract
The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of the existing literature on self-image, an important topic in psychology and other disciplines. This review examines the definition of self-image, its development and maintenance, and the various influences on an individual’s self-image. Furthermore, the various ways in which self-image can be improved are discussed. Additionally, the review examines the implications of self-image on mental health, physical health, and overall well-being. The review concludes with suggestions for further research in this area.
Introduction
Self-image is a critical component of an individual’s identity and is defined as “the mental picture, generally of a kind that is quite resistant to change, that depicts not only details that are potentially available to objective investigation by others, but also items that have been perceived or interpreted by that individual alone” (Duval & Wicklund, 1972, p. 5). Self-image is the way in which individuals perceive themselves, which includes their thoughts, feelings, and beliefs about their abilities, worth, and physical appearance. It is important to note that self-image is separate from self-esteem, which is an individual’s overall evaluation of their self-worth (Baumeister & Bushman, 2008). Self-image is thought to be developed in early childhood and is impacted by various factors such as family dynamics, cultural influences, and societal expectations (Baumeister & Bushman, 2008; McLeod, 2017).
Development and Maintenance of Self-Image
Self-image is largely developed in early childhood and is influenced by the individual’s interaction with their environment. For example, it has been suggested that children acquire self-image by observing the reactions of significant adults in their lives (McLeod, 2017). Additionally, it has been suggested that the messages that children receive from their parents, such as their expectations for the child’s behavior, can shape their self-image (McLeod, 2017). Furthermore, cultural influences, such as the values and beliefs held by the individual’s culture, are thought to play a significant role in the development of self-image (McLeod, 2017).
Once an individual’s self-image is formed, it is thought to be maintained through a process of self-verification. Self-verification involves the individual seeking out feedback from their environment that is consistent with their self-image (Swann, 1990). This process serves to reinforce the individual’s self-image, as they are seeking out evidence that confirms their beliefs about themselves. Additionally, self-image is thought to be maintained through a process of self-enhancement, where the individual seeks out feedback from their environment that is positive and affirming of their self-image (Swann, 1990).
Influences on Self-Image
There are a variety of factors that can influence an individual’s self-image. For example, it has been suggested that media and societal messages can have a significant impact on an individual’s self-image (McLeod, 2017). Specifically, it has been suggested that media messages and societal expectations, such as those regarding physical appearance, can lead to a negative self-image in individuals if they feel that they are unable to meet these expectations (McLeod, 2017). Additionally, it has been suggested that an individual’s self-image can be affected by experiences such as bullying and failure (McLeod, 2017).
Improving Self-Image
There are various ways in which an individual can improve their self-image. For example, it has been suggested that individuals can practice self-compassion, which involves being kind to oneself and accepting oneself, even in difficult situations (Neff, 2003). Additionally, individuals can practice positive self-talk, which involves using positive language to reinforce one’s self-image (Neff, 2003). Furthermore, it has been suggested that individuals can challenge their negative thoughts and beliefs about themselves in order to create a more positive self-image (Neff, 2003).
Implications of Self-Image
There are various implications of an individual’s self-image. For example, it has been suggested that an individual’s self-image can have an impact on their mental health, with a negative self-image being linked to a variety of mental health issues such as depression and anxiety (McLeod, 2017). Additionally, it has been suggested that an individual’s self-image can have an impact on their physical health, with a negative self-image being linked to a variety of physical health issues such as obesity and eating disorders (McLeod, 2017). Furthermore, it has been suggested that an individual’s self-image can have an impact on their overall well-being, with a negative self-image leading to decreased motivation and engagement in activities (McLeod, 2017).
Conclusion
This review has provided an overview of the existing literature on self-image, an important topic in psychology and other disciplines. This review examined the definition of self-image, its development and maintenance, and the various influences on an individual’s self-image. Additionally, the review examined the various ways in which self-image can be improved. Finally, the review examined the implications of self-image on mental health, physical health, and overall well-being. Suggestions for further research in this area include exploring the various ways in which an individual’s self-image can be improved, as well as examining the implications of self-image on an individual’s mental and physical health.
References
Baumeister, R. F., & Bushman, B. J. (2008). Social psychology and human nature. Belmont, CA: Wadsworth.
Duval, S., & Wicklund, R. A. (1972). A theory of objective self-awareness. New York: Academic Press.
McLeod, S. (2017). Self-image. Retrieved from https://www.simplypsychology.org/self-image.html
Neff, K. (2003). Self-compassion: An alternative conceptualization of a healthy attitude toward oneself. Self and Identity, 2(2), 85-101.
Swann, W. B. (1990). To be adored or to be known? The interplay of self-enhancement and self-verification. In E. T. Higgins & R. M. Sorrentino (Eds.), Handbook of motivation and cognition: Foundations of social behavior (pp. 408-448). New York: Guilford Press.