Communication with others is the main key for self- identity
development.
Our self-concept and identity progresses as we interact with others. We see ourselves based on how we think other see us.
Our self-concept and identity progresses as we interact with others. We see ourselves based on how we think other see us.
Our self- identity develops through interaction with others. This
stage begins with the development of self-awareness, the ability to understand
our existence and the knowledge that we are an independent individual.
According to scholars, the “looking glass self” theory, explains “our self-
concept is reflected back to us though our interactions with others and the
broader society in which we live (Mead 1934; Cooley 1964).
The self is also influenced by the “self-fulfilling prophecy’, the
tendency to live up to the expectations created by us” (Dobkin & Pace,
2006). Self- fulfilling prophecies are a very powerful way to influence an
individual’s self-concept because they can have a positive or a negative impact
on the person.
My score for SPCC test was an average of 90. The lowest scores where
the large group and stranger talks; the highest scores where the friends and
small groups talks. As much as I wanted to score myself with 100 in each
category, I had to admit I am not prepared to give a talk to a large group of
strangers. As stated in the SPCC test, “Higher
SPCC scores indicate higher self-perceived communication competence with basic
communication contexts (public, meeting, group, dyad) and receivers (strangers,
acquaintance, friend).” ( McCroskey, J. C., & McCroskey, L. L.
(1988). I consider myself a strongly perceptive person, understanding the world
and the people surrounding me. Because I have this ability, I can accommodate
myself in any talk group, and perceiving individual characteristics.
Biologically, humans are divided into male and female based on
genitalia and physical characteristics. However, the gender identity is based
on our conception of male and females. For instance, “women who see themselves
as feminine often perceive the social world as based on support and social
connections and use conversation as a way to share feelings and achieve
intimacy” (Dobkin & Pace). This idea applies to the way I communicate
online and face-to face; forums, blogs and websites dedicated to women’s health
concerns, give the impression that I can safely ask and express my concerns.
In addition, the “social identity theory” states the
identification with social groups is important for an individual’s
self-concept. When I communicate in an online classroom, I emphasize my level
of education or personal experiences related to the class. In a face-to-face
environment, I talk about subjects that could also be related to others in the
room.
Cultural identity is also one important element in building the
self-concept. Each culture has a different view of the world around us. I am
from Argentina, an Italian and Spaniard descendent. Although I can relate to
American society with no difficulty, I find it more comfortable to communicate
face-to-face with Hispanic people, and online with Americans.
In conclusion, the self-concept progresses as we interact with
others. In addition, we can play an important role in shaping our identity and
self-esteem. With time, we begin to understand ourselves based on other
people’s responses.
Resources
·
McCroskey, J. C., & McCroskey, L. L. (1988).
Self-report as an approach to measuring communication competence. Communication
Research Reports, 5, 108-113.
·
Dobkin, B. A., &
Pace, R. C. (2006). Communication in a changing world (2McGraw-Hill)
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