Looking Out Looking In Analysis

Self-Concept
Self-Concept in the book “Looking Out, Looking In” is defined as the set of perceptions each individual holds for him or herself. This isn’t just how you view yourself physically, but also emotional state, talents, like, dislikes, values, morals, and so on. Self-concept also has to do with self-esteem and self-worth. The things you do and the things you say, generally relate to self-concept, which is why self-concept and interpersonal communication have such an important relationship.
When you think of Self-concept, you should think of the question “who am I?” Self-concept is the image you have of who you are as a person. One 's self-concept is a collection of beliefs about themselves that includes elements such as academic performance, gender
In regards to interpersonal communication, self-concept really affects the way one may communicate. In communication, self-concept and the way one feels about themselves, is revealed to others, and affects how that other reacts to them. Subsequently, the perceptions someone believes others have of them, affect how they receive their communication, which influences their response.
A major factor of your own self-concept is others’ image of you, or how people generally see you. According to DeVito (2009), we look to people who are important to us to see how they treat us. He states, "If these important others think highly of you, you will see this positive image of yourself reflected in their behaviors; if they think little of you, you 'll see a more negative image.” To me this shows proof that self-concept is not entirely comprised of how you see yourself, but how others see you, also affects how you see yourself.
Next is your own interpretations and evaluations. An example of this is if you view yourself as a “good person” but find yourself doing something that goes against this interpretation of yourself, you may later feel guilty about it, ultimately changing your
If something is not culturally accepted, the things we do will alter our self-concept. For example, the age at which kids are sexually active is getting younger and younger by the day. If one decides not to have sex until they are married, (possibly in their 30’s) this is not going to be socially accepted by some, and people may label you as a “prude.” This can change how people look at you, and ultimately change how you view yourself, for better or worse.
Lastly, another factor of self-concept is social comparisons. For example, when trying to analyze your own self-concept, you may ask your friends/family what they think. Comparing what you believe and what your friends/family believe, can ultimately help you decide your own self-concept. In conclusion, self-concept is ultimately how you see yourself. Not just physically, but mentally and emotionally, in all aspects of your life. It is the perception of yourself as a whole, of your entire, individual being. “Self”, is a very large aspect of interpersonal communication. It is how you see yourself, how others see you, how you see others, and how you see, others see you. It creates who you are, whether it be shy, outgoing, confident, cowardly, good, bad, etc. A true definition of self-concept can be expressed entirely by the question, “Who am