Sense of self

Full Answer Section

As we grow older, our sense of self becomes more complex and nuanced. However, the looking-glass self remains an important influence on our self-esteem and our overall sense of well-being.

Here are some specific examples of how our sense of what others think of us can affect our sense of self:

• If we perceive that others view us favorably, we are more likely to feel confident, happy, and secure.
• If we perceive that others view us negatively, we are more likely to feel insecure, anxious, and depressed.
• We may engage in self-censorship or avoid certain activities or situations if we are worried about how others will perceive us.
• We may try to change our appearance or behavior in order to fit in and gain acceptance from others.

The YouTube video you linked to provides a fascinating anthropological perspective on the looking-glass self. The video discusses how social media platforms like YouTube have created new opportunities for people to construct and perform their identities. However, the video also highlights the potential negative consequences of the looking-glass self, such as social comparison and the need for validation from others.

Conclusion

Our sense of what others think of us is a powerful force that can shape our sense of self. It is important to be aware of this influence and to develop a healthy sense of self-worth that is not dependent on the approval of others.

Sample Answer Our sense of what others think of us has a significant impact on our sense of self. This is known as the looking-glass self, a concept developed by the American sociologist Charles Horton Cooley in 1902. Cooley argued that our self-concept is largely based on our perceptions of how others see us. We imagine how we appear to others, and we interpret their reactions to us, in order to form our own image of ourselves. The looking-glass self is shaped by our interactions with others throughout our lives. From a young age, we learn to gauge our own worth and value based on the feedback we receive from our parents, caregivers, teachers, and peers. We also learn to conform to social norms and expectations in order to gain acceptance and approval from others.