The concept of self

¶ … Self in Human Development

In studying human development, it is inevitable to talk about the creation and development of self-concept, which is commonly identified as an individual's perceived image of his or her self. The "self" is divided into two facets: one that is developed by the individual, and another self that is shaped by the social environment s/he lives in. The self formed by the individual is the private self, while the one influenced by the social environment is the public self. There are various factors that influence the development of both facets of the self. In the field of psychology, cognitive development helps develop the private self, while ideologies are examples of social influences to the public self. Moral development, meanwhile, occurs when the individual takes into account both his/her private and public selves in order to form his/her own moral beliefs and opinions.

These factors are vital to the development of one's self-concept because they help create an individual that is holistically sound -- that is, a person that has achieved healthy development mentally (i.e., physically), socially, and morally. In cognitive development, the individual learns how to think for himself/herself, and create decisions, judgments, and thoughts that are uniquely his/hers. Social development, meanwhile, is reinforced through one's recognition of gender identity. Through gender identity, the individual is able to determine and reinforce the role and status that society has given him or her as a man or woman. In effect, the individual becomes part of the society's institutions and structure because of the reinforcement of one's gender identity. Lastly, moral development takes place when the individual, based on his own cognitive and social experiences, is able to formulate his/her "personal philosophy," value judgment that s/he uses to create his/her beliefs, opinions, and feelings about life in general.