Table of Contents
An opening statement
The concept of the component
Self-concept
Self-image
Self-esteem
The Johari Model
Self-disclosure
In conclusion
An initial overview
Self is the collection of non-physical characteristics, such as personality or ability, which make a person unique. Gecas (1982), argues that the terms “self” (process) and “self concept” (structure) should be distinguished as this leads to confusion about whether the self is actually a process. The self concept, as used by Gecas in 1982’s journal “The Self Concept”, refers to the process of reflection that is derived from the dialectic between “I” and the “Me”.
Several factors influence the formation of a self-concept. The image or perception that is created against us by others determines what they say about ourselves. In addition, we are affected by our role, media messages, experiences, gender and culture. The way we see ourselves is a major factor in the way we communicate with others and are accepted by them. Thus, there is a need for people to develop the understanding in the process of communicating with others to enhance the development of human relations.The concept and componentSelf-conceptSelf-concept is distinguishable from self-awareness, which refers to the extent to which self-knowledge is defined, consistent and currently applicable to one’s attitudes and dispositions. Experiences, knowledge and backgrounds can impact the way a message is interpreted. We must therefore understand the process of accumulating experiences, knowledge and background. Self-concept plays a key role in interpersonal communication. This is the mental picture that people have of themselves. This self image is a product of our past interactions and experiences. The way we see ourselves is not always the same as how other people perceive us. Self-esteem and self-image are the two major components of self-concept.
Self-imageSelf image is the way people see themselves. It is also the total subjective impression of a person, including their perception of themselves. Self-image influences behaviour positively, for example by giving someone confidence in what they think and do. The negative effects of self-image include making people doubt their own abilities and beliefs. Many people believe in self-image. Some people believe, for example, that the circumstances that surround a person, such as their schooling, job, or relationship, define his or her self-image. Some believe that the person’s own self-image is what shapes those events. It is undisputed that the self-image of a person has a strong impact on their happiness and outlook. If someone has a good self-image, they are likely to be seen as positive and capable by others. Self-esteem is one of the components in self concept, but self image is different. It refers to what an individual believes other people think about him or herself. Self-images may not match what others actually think, but it is easy to imagine how they can affect human relationships. People may not be as motivated to improve their situation if they think that other people view them as arrogant. This is a very unhealthy and unproductive way to work with others. According to the theory, people need to control their self-image in order for them have better relationships with others.
Self-esteemSelf-esteem is a reflection of an individual’s overall subjective evaluation of his or her own worth. It includes one’s self-perception, emotions like pride, shame, and despair. The environment and development of an individual can influence and determine self-esteem. Nilofar Vasir and Syeda Imana Raza wrote in an article published on June 9, 2009 on the topic of ‘What is self-esteem?’ that a good sense of self-esteem helps one feel confident and proud. Self-esteem gives people the confidence to try something new and fosters respect between individuals, even when mistakes are made. Everyone should begin to build their self-esteem immediately. As positive influences, parents, colleagues, friends, and associations can help to develop the self-esteem of others. Because people who feel confident and competent tend to be more successful than those who feel low self-esteem. Having a higher level self-esteem allows one to project better. They can learn from their mistakes and communicate better. It will lead to better relationships with other people.
The Johari WindowThe Johari Window (also known as the Human Relations Model) was created by Joseph Luft and Harry Ingham. It is designed with four main roles in mind to encourage greater openness to personal growth. They are: self-disclosure; encouragement of others to be more open, and feedback.
Open Area: This is where we can share our personal traits with others. This area contains information such as communication style and level of trust. Enlarging the area that is visible leads to shrinking the area that is hidden. It will also reduce the distortions of mistrust in people’s minds, allowing for a more positive relationship between peers.
Blind Area: This is where we don’t see ourselves clearly or what others think of us. You may be unaware of your own weaknesses and faults or what others think about you.
Hidden Areas is where you hide things about yourself that you don’t want anyone else to know. Hiding true feelings or thoughts can influence how others react to us.
The Unknown Area contains all the suppressed emotions, desires, and memories that can be expressed in unplanned and unconscious behavior. Newstrom & Rubenfeld, 1983, stated that parties are not aware of the relevant information in this area. Even though both parties are unaware of this, it can still impact the quality and overall relationship.
The Johari Window can be used to communicate. The Johari Window can be used to develop oneself and to help a team communicate more effectively by understanding what they already know. To practice the Johari Window at an early stage, it’s recommended to start with the first one. If the team feels comfortable, they can expand the list to include negative traits. When the team is ready to move forward, the participants can then use the entire window for discussion of goals, thoughts and skills. The more this method is used, the better human relationships can be developed in the team.
The Johari Window, a tool that compares self-perception to other people’s perception, has become an invaluable guide for improving development. Understanding the Johari Window concept can lead to a better relationship between people. As we strive to improve our interpersonal relations, cooperation and teamwork, we should increase the Open Area.
Self-disclosureSelf-disclosure is a process of communication by which one person reveals information about himself or herself to another. Self-disclosure doesn’t have to be profound to be meaningful or useful. For example, people can reveal their hidden selves to others to create a meaningful relationship. Self-disclosure could be unintentional or intentional, including unconscious behaviours and pronunciations. The information that is hidden from others will be more self-disclosure than the information which has not been revealed. To build a better relationship with others, it is important to be honest about yourself. It is true that self-disclosure leads to better human relationships, but it can also have the opposite effect. Self-disclosure that is inappropriate or not timed well can cause relationship damage. The level of intimacy, type of relationships and place where information is shared are all factors that can affect the success of a self-disclosure.
The process of self-disclosure may be complex, but it is important for the development, progression and survival of relationships. The rule of exchange is an important part of self-disclosure. This rule says that the best way to reveal personal information is in a back-and-forth fashion. It is expected that if someone discloses something private, the other person will do so as well. It can cause inequality in a relationship when one person is more forthcoming than the other.
ConclusionOur perceptions are heavily influenced both by our surroundings and those around us. This includes the environment we find ourselves in, the past and present experiences that we have, and also the age at which we recognize who we truly are. Any perception we have of ourselves or of others can affect our self image, which is what helps us define who and where we are. The self-image and self-assessment are also important components of the concept. Self-esteem is determined by the positive and negative experiences that have been accumulated in life.
Conclusion: There are several factors that influence the development of a person’s self-concept. They include the description of other people by others, the way people perceive others, the comparison between us and them, and their cultural background. So, it is important to discuss the Johari Window with those who are interested in improving human relationships.
