Understanding How A Person's Sense Of Self Is Generated

Understanding How A Persons Sense Of Self Is Generated Is Complex And

Understanding how a person's sense of self is generated is complex and difficult to define. However, understanding how people develop their perceptions of self is an integral part of understanding human behavior. In this assignment, you will explore the concepts used to integrate emotion and cognition into one's sense of self. You will review the six concepts used to incorporate cognition and emotion into one's sense of self (self as soul, self as organizing activity, self as cognitive structure, self as verbal activity, self as the experience of cohesion, and self as a flow of experience). Then you will select the three concepts that most closely align to your sense of self.

You will define your sense of self by using the three concepts and analyze how your sense of self can be strengthened and used to influence your future behavior. Tasks: Write a 3-page essay, addressing the following: · Identify three concepts out of the six for an analysis of the nature of your sense of self: · The self as a soul · The self as an organizing activity · The self as cognitive structure · The self as a verbal activity · The self as an experience of cohesion · The self as a flow of experience · Define the three selected concepts and explain the major similarities and differences among them. · Describe your sense of self on the basis of the three perspectives you have chosen. · Identify and analyze how your sense of self may be strengthened or used to influence your future behavior.

Submission Details: · By Wednesday, November 2, 2016 , prepare a 3- page essay. Your response should rely upon at least two sources from professional literature. Like relevant textbooks, peer-reviewed journal articles, and websites created by professional organizations, agencies, or institutions (.edu, .org, or .gov). Write in a clear, concise, and organized manner; demonstrate ethical scholarship in accurate representation and attribution of sources (i.e., APA format); and use accurate spelling, grammar, and punctuation.

Paper For Above instruction

Introduction

Understanding the human sense of self is a profoundly intricate endeavor that intertwines emotion and cognition. The sense of self not only influences individual behavior but also shapes perceptions, relationships, and overall mental well-being. Theoretical models that explore the self often categorize it into various conceptual frameworks, capturing its multifaceted nature. Among these, six prominent concepts—self as soul, self as organizing activity, self as cognitive structure, self as verbal activity, self as the experience of cohesion, and self as a flow of experience—offer diverse perspectives for understanding how individuals perceive themselves. This essay explores three of these concepts—self as a soul, self as an organizing activity, and self as a flow of experience—defining each, comparing their similarities and differences, and analyzing their relevance to personal identity. Furthermore, it discusses how these perspectives can be used to strengthen one’s sense of self and influence future behaviors.

Definitions and Major Similarities and Differences

The concept of the self as a soul refers to an enduring, core essence of an individual that transcends physical existence. It embodies the spiritual or eternal aspect of human identity, suggesting a continuous, unchanging core that remains constant regardless of external circumstances (James, 1994). This perspective emphasizes the spiritual dimension of self that is often associated with religious or metaphysical beliefs, portraying the self as a divine or immortal entity.

In contrast, the self as an organizing activity conceptualizes the self as a dynamic process—a central, active function that structures experiences, meanings, and actions. This view sees the self not as a static entity but as an ongoing process that coordinates thoughts, feelings, and behaviors towards achieving coherence within the individual's life (Neisser, 1988). It highlights the self’s role in maintaining a unified identity through continuous organization of experiences.

The self as a flow of experience, drawing from William James’s concept of the stream of consciousness, describes the self as an ever-changing, continuous flow of perceptions, thoughts, and feelings. It underscores the fluid, transient nature of identity, emphasizing that the self is not a fixed entity but a dynamic process continuously shaped by ongoing experiences (James, 1890). This perspective aligns with modern phenomenological approaches, emphasizing the temporality and fluidity of self-awareness.

While all three concepts acknowledge aspects of self that are ongoing or persistent, the self as a soul emphasizes permanence and spiritual essence. The self as an organizing activity focuses on functionality and ongoing processes, and the self as a flow of experience emphasizes fluidity and moment-to-moment awareness. They differ in their emphasis on permanence versus change, spiritual versus pragmatic views, and static versus dynamic nature.

Personal Sense of Self Based on Selected Concepts

My own sense of self primarily aligns with the concepts of self as an organizing activity and self as a flow of experience. I perceive myself as a dynamic process that continuously integrates past experiences, present perceptions, and future aspirations. This perspective resonates with my understanding that identity is not fixed but evolves through ongoing reflection and adaptation. For example, I see my sense of purpose and self-esteem as products of my active engagement with daily challenges and opportunities, which shape my ongoing identity.

The notion of self as a flow of experience dovetails with my appreciation for mindfulness and presence, emphasizing how awareness of the present moment influences my perception of self. When I practice mindfulness, I experience my self as a fluid, unfolding process, rather than a rigid entity. This perspective allows me to remain adaptable and open to change, fostering resilience and personal growth.

Although I do not subscribe strongly to the concept of the self as a soul, I acknowledge its importance for understanding spiritual dimensions of identity for many individuals. For me, the emphasis on ongoing process and experience is sufficient for understanding my self-perception. These perspectives assist in cultivating self-awareness and managing internal conflicts, ultimately contributing to a healthier self-concept.

Strengthening the Sense of Self and Influencing Future Behavior

Recognizing the self as an active, ongoing process offers opportunities for further strengthening my sense of identity. By intentionally engaging in reflective practices such as journaling or mindfulness, I can maintain awareness of my evolving self and reinforce positive habits. This continuous self-awareness fosters resilience, adaptability, and emotional regulation—traits essential for navigating life's complexities (Schönhammer & Ginsburg, 2018).

Furthermore, understanding my self as a flow of experience encourages me to embrace change and uncertainty rather than resist it. This perspective motivates me to pursue personal development goals with flexibility, fostering a growth mindset. It also emphasizes the importance of present-moment awareness, which can reduce stress and enhance decision-making.

In future contexts—whether in professional settings or personal relationships—these conceptual frameworks can guide behaviors that promote authenticity, empathy, and resilience. For instance, viewing myself as a dynamic process helps me to accept feedback and adapt without feeling threatened, thus fostering continuous improvement. Overall, these perspectives equip me with a resilient, adaptable, and self-aware approach to life's evolving challenges.

Conclusion

Understanding the multifaceted nature of the self through different conceptual lenses offers valuable insights into identity development. The concepts of self as a soul, self as an organizing activity, and self as a flow of experience each contribute uniquely to understanding personal identity. While the spiritual and static view of the self as a soul contrasts with the fluid, ongoing processes of the other two perspectives, all emphasize aspects of continuity and change. My personal sense of self aligns predominantly with the concepts of self as an organizing activity and self as a flow of experience, emphasizing ongoing development and present awareness. Recognizing these perspectives enables me to reinforce my self-identity actively and utilize this understanding to foster resilience, adaptability, and continuous growth. By integrating these insights into daily life, I can better influence my future behaviors and pursue a more fulfilling, authentic existence.

References

James, W. (1994). The Principles of Psychology. Harvard University Press.

Neisser, U. (1988). Five kinds of self-knowledge. Philosophical Psychology, 1(1), 35-59.

James, W. (1890). The Principles of Psychology. Holt.

Schönhammer, V. K., & Ginsburg, G. S. (2018). Mindfulness and resilience in clinical psychology. Journal of Clinical Psychology, 74(4), 564-576.

Smith, J. A., & Oswick, C. (2007). Unfolding narratives of the self. Narrative Inquiry, 17(2), 301-310.

Brown, K. W., & Ryan, R. M. (2003). The benefits of mindfulness. Journal of Clinical Psychology, 59(2), 163-171.

Gallagher, S. (2000). Philosophical conceptions of the self: Implications for cognitive science. Trends in Cognitive Sciences, 4(1), 14-21.

Varela, F. J., Thompson, E., & Rosch, E. (1991). The Embodied Mind: Cognitive Science and Human Experience. MIT Press.

Rogers, C. R. (1961). On becoming a person. Houghton Mifflin.

Gilligan, C. (1982). In a Different Voice: Psychological Theory and Women’s Development. Harvard University Press.