GEN 002: UNDERSTANDING THE SELF

MODULE #6: The Cognitive REAL SELF

- Refers to who we truly are.
Construction of Self - It represents our authentic identity
shaped by various factors such as
upbringing, environment, genetic,
and life experiences.

CARL ROGERS
IDEAL SELF
- He was a humanistic psychologist
- Refers to the version of ourselves
who had this assumption that for a
that we aspire to be or believe we
person to “grow” he must need
should be.
an environment that can provide
- It comprises the qualities, traits,
him openness and
behaviors, and achievements that
self-disclosure.
we idealize and strive towards.
- Desire to self-actualize to reach
highest potential and achieve his
WHEN YOUR REAL SELF MATCHES
level of humanness.
YOUR IDEAL SELF ACCORDING TO
- To be self-actualized must be in a
ROGERS, YOU FEEL REALLY GOOD
state of congruence or balance.
ABOUT YOURSELF.

1. Openness and Self Disclosure:

Rogers believed that for individuals to grow
and develop optimally, they need an
.
environment characterized by openness
and self disclosure. This means that people
should feel free to express themselves
authentically without fear of judgment or
rejection.

2. Basic Motive - Self Actualization:

Rogers posited that every person has a
fundamental motive, which is the desire to
self actualize. Self-actualization refers to the
process of realizing one’s full potential,
talents, and abilities, and striving to become
the best version of oneself.

3. Congruence or Balance:
Rogers believed that a crucial aspect of
self-actualization is achieving congruence or
congruency. This means being in harmony
or alignment between one’s real self (who
they currently are) and their ideal self (who
they aspire to be).

COLLEGE OF ARTS AND SCIENCEs LOCAL STUDENT COUNCIL 1

GEN 002: UNDERSTANDING THE SELF

MODULE #7: Individualistic cultures prioritize group cohesion, social

harmony, and interdependence.
versus Collectivist Self
Independence vs. Interdependence:
Individualist self-concepts emphasize
independence and autonomy, whereas
INDIVIDUALIST SELF VS. COLLECTIVIST collectivist self-concepts emphasize
SELF: A CULTURAL PERSPECTIVE interdependence, cooperation, and mutual
support.
Individualist Self (Western Thought)
- Individualism is a philosophy of life Self-Expression vs. Social Obligation: In
emphasizing the priority of a Western cultures, individuals are
person’s need over group, an encouraged to express their opinions and
emphasis on individuality. pursue personal goals, while in Eastern
- Is characterized by a strong cultures, individuals may prioritize social
emphasis on personal goals, obligations and responsibilities to maintain
achievements, and autonomy. group harmony.

Collectivist Self (Eastern Thought) Recognizing and respecting these

- Collectivism represents a preference cultural differences is essential for
for a tightly knit social network in fostering mutual understanding and
which a person can expect their cooperation in an increasingly
family and other relatives of the interconnected world.
social group to look after them in
exchange for unquestioned loyalty.
- Individuals prioritize the needs and
goals of the group over personal
desires.
Interconnectedness: collectivist self is
characterized by a sense of
interconnectedness with family, community,
and society.
Group Identity: individuals derive their
sense of self from their roles within the
larger social context.

Key Contrasts:

Focus on the individual vs. Focus on the

Group: Western individualist cultures
prioritize individual rights, freedoms, and
self-expression, while Eastern collectivist

COLLEGE OF ARTS AND SCIENCEs LOCAL STUDENT COUNCIL 2

GEN 002: UNDERSTANDING THE SELF

MODULE #3: The Physical Self: In the modern world, we are constantly
exposed to images of stylish women with
The Impact of Culture on Body flawless skin, slender waists, curves, and
Image for men, 6-pack abs or showcasing chiseled
physiques, all while conforming to specific
weight standards.

The Physical Self is all about your body 1. Cultural Norms - In some parts of
and what makes you unique physically. It’s the Philippines, light skin has long
everything about your body that you can been considered a beauty ideal,
see, feel, and do. influenced in part by historical
notions of beauty during colonial
On the other hand, we have body image. It periods.
refers to how individuals perceive, think, 2. Media - Media significantly impacts
and feel about their physical appearance our body image by promoting
and body. It includes their thoughts, beliefs, unrealistic beauty standards.
attitudes, and emotions related to their body 3. The closest to us - family and
size, shape, features, and overall friends - Negative comments from
attractiveness. family and friends can have a
significant impact on our body
Think of your physical self and body image image.
as your physical identity or how you typically
exist in the world. It’s influenced by things The culture or society we live in can really
like your genes, how you take care of your dent our lives. Here are some of the
body, and even the culture you live in. negative effects of culture and society on
our body image.
1. Genes - Many physical traits, such
as eye color, height, and bone 1. Body Dissatisfaction - Feeling
structure are directly influenced by unhappy or displeased with one’s
your genetic make up. Genes can body size, shape, or appearance.
influence physical abilities such as 2. Social Comparison - Comparing
athletic performance, coordination, one’s body to others, often based on
and muscle strength as well as unrealistic beauty standards
development of physical disabilities. promoted in media and society.
2. Self Care - Taking care of oneself 3. Eating Disorders - Extreme
has a significant impact on physical behaviors related to food intake and
well-being across various weight control, such as anorexia
dimensions. nervosa, bulimia nervosa, or binge
3. Culture - Different cultural standards eating disorder.
can influence individuals’ 4. Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD)
perceptions of their own bodies and - A mental health disorder
what is considered desirable. characterized by obsessive thoughts

COLLEGE OF ARTS AND SCIENCEs LOCAL STUDENT COUNCIL 3

GEN 002: UNDERSTANDING THE SELF
about perceived flaws or defects in
one’s appearance.
5. Avoidance Behaviors - Avoiding
social institutions, activities, or
clothing that may highlight perceived
flaws or trigger negative body image
thoughts.

WAYS TO HAVE POSITIVE BODY IMAGE

1. Practice Self-Compassion - Be
kind and compassionate towards
yourself. Focus on your strengths,
talents, and qualities beyond
physical appearance.
2. Surround Yourself with Positive
Influences - Surround yourself with
supportive and positive influences,
such as friends and family members
that promote body positivity and
acceptance.
3. Focus on Health, Not Just
Appearance - Shift your focus from
achieving a certain appearance to
prioritizing your overall health and
well-being.
4. Practice Mindful Eating - Practice
mindful eating by listening to your
body’s hunger and fullness cues,
rather than focusing on strict diets or
restrictions.
5. Engage in Self Care - Engage in
self care activities that promote
self-love and self-acceptance.
6. Seek Support - If you’re struggling
with body issues, seek support from
a therapist, counselor, or support
group specializing in body-image
and self-esteem.

COLLEGE OF ARTS AND SCIENCEs LOCAL STUDENT COUNCIL 4

GEN 002: UNDERSTANDING THE SELF

MODULE #9: The Economic and not essential for survival but contribute to
overall well-being and satisfaction.
Material Self: Living in a
Needs are fundamental requirements
Material World necessary for human survival and
well-being, whereas wants are desires or
preferences that contribute to a more
comfortable, enjoyable, or fulfilling life
Material or Economic Self is defined as
but are not indispensable for basic
the extension of our physical self because
survival.
the possession that we have is considered
as an external representation of who we
RESPONSIBLE CONSUMER
are. Material possessions, such as clothing,
- Understand your needs and wants
accessories, gadgets, and vehicles, are
- Research before buying
physical objects that we interact with daily.
- Support ethical practices
These items can reflect our tastes,
- Create a budget
preferences, and lifestyle choices, acting as
- Avoid impulse purchases
tangible representations of our identity and
- Practice conscious consumption
personality.

There are times when our material self

serves as our social signifiers.

The Diderot Effect

Denis Diderot, a French Philosopher, came
up with the Diderot Effect. It reveals
something many people do: getting one new
things makes them want more new things. It
starts a cycle where they feel like their old
stuff isn’t good enough anymore. This
makes them buy more stuff to feel better
about themselves and show off their status.

Needs and Wants

“Necessity is the mother of consumption”

essentially means that people tend to
consume or buy things when they feel they
need them.

Wants are desires or preferences for things

or experiences that enhance quality of life,
comfort, pleasure, or enjoyment. They are

COLLEGE OF ARTS AND SCIENCEs LOCAL STUDENT COUNCIL 5

GEN 002: UNDERSTANDING THE SELF

MODULE #10: The Spiritual Self, Religions Views on Self

Religion is a set of beliefs, practices, and
the Inner Soul rituals, followed by a group of people. It
often involves faith in a higher power or
powers, such as God or gods, and can
include specific techniques about morality,
The Spiritual Self: The Inner Soul the afterlife, and the purpose of life. It plays
a significant role in shaping cultures,
The spiritual self is who we are at our core. traditions, and individual identities.
The concept of spiritual self revolves around
the idea of an inner essence or soul that The views of major religions on the self offer
transcends the physical body and material profound insights into the nature of human
world. existence, spiritual growth, and the quest for
meaning and purpose.
Spirituality encompasses an individual’s
deep contemplation on life’s ultimate Hinduism
questions, leading to behaviors aligned with - Teaches that the self, known as
their core values. It involves internal Atman, is eternal and identical to the
reflections on personal values and moral ultimate reality, Brahman. Through
standards, representing one’s inner being. the cycle of reincarnation (samsara),
individuals experience the
SPIRITUAL SELF consequences of their actions
(karma) and seek liberation
Transcendence and Connection - (moksha) from the cycle of birth and
cultivate this connection through practices death.
such as prayer, meditation, or - The self is seen as distinct from the
contemplation, aiming to align their inner physical body and mind,
selves with spiritual truths and universal representing the essence of
principles. consciousness and divine
Personal Growth and Well-Being - connection. Self-realization
becoming aware of our spiritual selves can (atma-jnana) is central to spiritual
help us grow personally, become more growth and the attainment of
resilient, and improve our well-being by enlightenment.
giving us sense of purpose, connection, and
inner peace. Buddhism
Meaning and Purpose - individuals may - Views the self as impermanent and
explore existential questions about the devoid of inherent existence. The
nature of existence, the meaning of concept of Anatta (non-self)
suffering, and the pursuit of transcendental emphasizes that the self is
experiences to find deeper fulfillment. composed of ever-changing
Values and Beliefs - is influenced by aggregates (skandhas), including
values and beliefs that shape how we form, sensation, perception, mental
behave ethically, make moral decisions, and formations, and consciousness.
seek spiritual growth.

COLLEGE OF ARTS AND SCIENCEs LOCAL STUDENT COUNCIL 6

GEN 002: UNDERSTANDING THE SELF
- The goal of Buddhist practice is to - Teaches that the self, known as
transcend the illusion of selfhood nafs, is created by Allah and
and attain enlightenment (nirvana) endowed with free will and moral
by realizing the interconnectedness responsibility. The ultimate goal is
and interdependence of all submission to the will of Allah
phenomena. Through mindfulness (Islam) and attainment of spiritual
and insight meditation, leading to purity (tazkiyah).
liberation from suffering (dukkha). - Personal identity is shaped by
adherence to the Five Pillars of
Judaism Islam, including faith (Shahada),
- Emphasizes the importance of the prayer (Salah), charity (Zakat),
self’s moral and ethical development fasting (Sawm), and pilgrimage
in alignment with divine (Hajj). The self is purified through
commandments (mitzvot) and spiritual practices and adherence to
covenantal relationships with God. Islamic teachings, leading to inner
The self is viewed as endowed with peace and divine favor.
free will and responsibility for
righteous conduct.
- Personal identity is shaped by
adherence to Jewish laws, rituals,
and traditions, fostering a sense of
belonging to the community (klal
yisrael) and a covenantal
relationship with God.

Christianity
- Teaches that the self is created in
the image of God and endowed with
inherent dignity and worth. Through
faith in Jesus Christ and redemption
through his sacrificial death and
resurrection, individuals find
salvation and reconciliation with
God.
- Personal identity is intertwined with
one’s relationship with God and
participation in the Christian
community (Body of Christ). The
indwelling of the Holy Spirit
empowers believers to live virtuously
and fulfill their divine purpose.

Islam

COLLEGE OF ARTS AND SCIENCEs LOCAL STUDENT COUNCIL 7