Self-concept refers to the perception an individual has about him or herself, their character, whether it is their identity or their weaknesses or strengths. Myer (2010) defines self-concept as a person who is able to answer the question of “I am___”, such answers derived from the question explain the individual’s self-concept. Self-schemas, which are the individual ideas and beliefs, allow individuals to perceive others in their same categories (Myers, 2010). For instance, if an individual regards themselves as trendsetters, the main characteristics he or she will pick up from others is their sense of style. Self-concept impacts on the person one is, perception of others, and the possible person one can become or avoid (Myers, 2010).
Cultural beliefs, on the other hand, differ among nations, while in some countries people tend to think of themselves collectively, others think of themselves more as an individual, and less as a part of a whole (Myers, 2010). Individual cultures affect the person one is, in some cultures people are thought to be less centered on the self, but more on the environment, or those around the individual. Cultures teach acceptable values, behaviors, and beliefs, influencing how individuals perceive others outside their own culture, based on what they know to accept.
The knowledge of self, though erroneous at times, can affect the way individuals predict emotions and the behavior over emotional events (Myers, 2010). Though nobody should know better about the knowledge of self, other than the individual’s self, people tend to misinterpret information and make mistakes.
Social self refers to the role the person has to play, the role in the home, at work, and even at school or with friends. The more the role is played the more belief the role gains, until it is a reality (Myers, 2010).
Self-concept, culture, knowledge of self, and