Describe Your Extended Self: The Possessions And Their Attri ✓ Solved
Describe Your Extended Self The Possessions And Their Attributes
Describe your extended self – the possessions and their attributes that relay your identity. Include all four (4) levels of the extended self: individual, family, community, and group. For each level, discuss three (3) possessions to include each possession’s attributes and explain what that possession means to you and/or expresses about you. Your activity responses should be both grammatically and mechanically correct, and formatted in the same fashion as the activity itself. If there is a Part A, your response should identify a Part A, etc. In addition, you must appropriately cite all resources used in your response and document in a bibliography using APA style. (A 3-page response is required.)
Sample Paper For Above instruction
The concept of the extended self is a profound reflection of how possessions serve as tangible expressions of personal identity across different social and psychological levels. According to Belk (1988), possessions are not merely material objects but are imbued with personal meaning, shaping and reflecting who we are at various levels: individual, family, community, and group. This essay delves into three possessions at each of these levels, discussing their attributes and what they reveal about my identity and values.
Individual Level
At the core of my extended self are possessions that represent my personal preferences, aspirations, and self-image. A key possession is my smartphone, which epitomizes connectivity, modernity, and access to information. Its attributes include its sleek design, cutting-edge technology, and multifunctionality. The smartphone signifies my commitment to staying connected with peers and staying informed, reflecting my value of communication and continuous learning (Kapferer, 2012).
Another individual possession is my fitness journal, which I attribute with discipline, health consciousness, and self-motivation. Its attributes include organization, portability, and motivational entries. This journal expresses my dedication to personal well-being and self-improvement, aligning with my identity as an active and health-conscious individual.
The third possession at this level is my favorite book, which symbolizes my intellectual curiosity and appreciation for knowledge. Its attributes involve its subject matter—philosophy—and its worn pages, indicating frequent engagement. This possession signifies my value for critical thinking and lifelong learning (Belk, 2013).
Family Level
My family possessions include my grandmother's vintage necklace, a silver locket passed down through generations. Its attributes encompass its historical significance, intricate craftsmanship, and sentimental value. This necklace embodies familial love, heritage, and continuity, symbolizing my strong connection to family roots and shared values.
The second possession is a family photo album, which captures moments of shared happiness and milestones. Its attributes involve nostalgia, memory preservation, and emotional bonding. The album signifies the importance I place on family history and collective identity.
The third possession is a handcrafted quilt made by my mother, representing care, tradition, and warmth. Its attributes include vibrant colors, textured fabric, and personal craftsmanship. The quilt expresses my appreciation for family’s nurturing role and cultural heritage.
Community Level
In the community context, I cherish my volunteer badge from a local charity organization. Attributes include its insignia, fabric, and the role it symbolizes. It signifies my commitment to social responsibility and civic engagement, reflecting my values of altruism and community service.
The second possession is a mural painted by community artists, which represents collective creativity and cultural identity. Its attributes involve its vibrant colors, thematic message, and public accessibility. It embodies my appreciation for community art and cultural diversity.
The third possession is a donation plaque in recognition of my contributions to a local school. Attributes include its inscription, material, and the recognition it confers. It signifies my belief in education and community development, illustrating my role in fostering communal progress.
Group Level
At the group level, I identify my membership pin in a professional association. Its attributes are its emblem, material, and symbolism of professional identity. It expresses my dedication to my career, professional growth, and belonging to a community of practice.
The second possession is a cultural artifact from a social club I attend, such as a traditional costume piece. Its attributes include craftsmanship, traditional significance, and symbolism. It exemplifies my connection to cultural heritage and shared group identity.
The third possession is a souvenir from a travel group tour, such as a keychain. Attributes include its novelty, design, and memories attached. It reflects my values of adventure, exploration, and camaraderie with like-minded individuals.
Conclusion
In conclusion, possessions serve as powerful symbols and conveyors of identity across various levels of social and personal life. By examining the attributes and personal meanings of these possessions, we gain insight into the complex layers of the extended self. As Belk (2013) states, possessions are not only material objects but are intertwined with the stories, relationships, and values that define who we are.
References
- Belk, R. W. (1988). Possessions and the extended self. Journal of Consumer Research, 15(2), 139–168.
- Belk, R. W. (2013). Extended self in a digital world. Journal of Consumer Research, 40(3), 477–500.
- Kapferer, J.-N. (2012). The new strategic brand management: Advanced insights and strategic thinking. Kogan Page.