what does self definition mean?

Question

This is for psychology

Answer 1

I don't have an 'official' definition, but I'll 'guess' according to my old psych classes and my time here on earth...
Defining the self occurs on many layers, including those external and those internal. Externally speaking, there are roles and issues relating to society as a whole that may define a person. The roles may include being a member of a particular religious organization or the position one holds at a place of employment. Issues refer to a cause that one may fight for such as equality of something or joining a service organization as a volunteer. Closer to home are the roles relating to family and friends, such as sister, daughter, brother son, and so on. As for internal... I'm using that word because these are the things that are more personal. For instance, not what church you're part of but how you feel about your religion and which aspects of it you regard as more important. Think also, hobbies (though some hobbies are more social) and why you chose a certain profession.
This gets kind of complicated because some things fall into two or more groups, but you can probably figure that out.
Basically, anything and everything can serve as an aspect of a person's 'definition' of themselves. I remember TFAB - Thoughts, Feelings, Attitudes, Behaviors. My teacher said that's the particular order in which something surfaces. I don't necessarily believe her, but I do think it can summarize a person or be used to define a person. It takes the beginning of something from the internal matriculation to the external manifestation.

Answer 2

*self-definition* is kind of synonymous with *identity*.

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from: http://www.soton.ac.uk/~crsi/background.htm

it usually crops up in relation to labelling theory, where people actively take on roles or behaviours that cut against the labels that they have been given. eg to describe minority groups forging an identity that challenges the stereotypical portrayals of them.

Answer 3

Greetings. I like your Question. Makes one think.
I'll try and answer it as I see it.
It defines how you see yourself amongst others.
Your Beliefs, Ethics, Moral code.
If an Atheist, agnostic, or Religious person.
If a bigoted person or not.
if Liar or honest person
believe in Euthanasia or not.
Capable or unreliable,
weak, strong
young or old compared to your friends at same age.etc, etc.
All of these set you apart making you an individual in your own eyes. So define who you are and actually what you are.
I hope that helps. Ciao Lynda

Answer 4

Means
You seek to understand your talents and true nature
AND then
You decide what path to take in life . . .
Others (parents, school, church, friends etc) opinions are considered and evaluated BUT
You ultimately choose your path , NOT someone else.