1st midterms - Physical Self
Courses
💭 Understanding the Self
Tags
Class Notes
Done?
Title: Physical Self - The Sun in Darkness
Introduction
Adolescence: A period between childhood and adulthood (ages 10-19), often
extending into the early 20s.
Marked by self-concept and self-esteem issues, physical changes, and
emotional and social challenges.
Self-Concept: How you see yourself (your traits, abilities, and identity).
Example: "I am creative."
Self-Esteem: How you feel about yourself (your sense of worth and value).
Example: "I am good enough."
Key Difference:
Self-concept is who you are.
Self-esteem is how you feel about who you are.
Section: Physical Changes in Adolescence
Adolescence is a time of rapid physical changes (growth spurts, hormonal
changes).
This often causes feelings of insecurity, especially in comparison to peers
or media images.
Body Image: How satisfied you are with your physical appearance.
Body image and self-esteem are closely related, especially during
adolescence.
Section: Social Comparison
Adolescents tend to compare themselves to others, often leading to negative
self-evaluation.
Media and social platforms create unrealistic beauty standards.
Examples of social comparison thoughts:
"Everyone in my class has better grades."
1st midterms - Physical Self
1
"My clothes aren't as trendy as others'."
Important Reminder:
Focus on your own progress and celebrate your unique self rather than
comparing yourself to others.
Section: Peer Pressure
Peer pressure is common during adolescence as teens seek acceptance from
their peers.
This can influence self-esteem and make teens feel insecure about their
physical appearance.
Key Message:
"Don’t let peer pressure define your path; trust your growth and values."
Section: Identity Exploration
Adolescence is a time of identity exploration, which can lead to feelings of
self-doubt about appearance.
Self-reflection, open conversations, and exploring interests can help
adolescents better understand themselves.
Section: Mental Health and Self-Concept
Mental health factors like anxiety, stress, and mood swings can negatively
impact self-esteem and self-concept during adolescence.
Stress can exacerbate insecurities about appearance.
Section: Factors in the Development of the Physical Self
Nature (heredity): Traits inherited from parents influence physical
characteristics.
Nurture (environment): External influences, such as education and life
experiences, shape one's perception of their physical self.
Behavioral Biology: Helps measure psychological traits and dietary impacts
on development.
Section: Body Image and Self-Esteem
Society's beauty standards: Expectations like flawless skin, toned bodies,
and silky hair influence how adolescents perceive themselves.
Research shows that a positive body image is directly related to higher
self-esteem (Morin, Marsh, 2011).
Spirituality and Self-Esteem: A positive correlation exists between spirituality
and self-esteem among adolescents (Hayman, 2007).
1st midterms - Physical Self
2
Section: Key Takeaway
Self-esteem is influenced by many factors, not just physical appearance.
Embrace a holistic view of the self, considering cultural, social, and emotional
dimensions.
Adolescents should be encouraged to understand that their worth goes
beyond physical appearance and that self-esteem should be nurtured through
personal growth and self-acceptance.
Midterm Take-Home Assessment:
1. Reflect on your self-concept and self-esteem.
2. How does social media influence your view of your physical self?
3. Compare how you see yourself now to how you felt in the past.
1st midterms - Physical Self
3