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Reflection Paper #___6____
Understanding The Self
Sorsogon State University

Carl Joseph B. Laura
BEED 1B
1st Semester
2024-2025
October 11, 2024
“My Self and My Identity”
The exploration of self and identity shows that our sense of self is not a rigid
construct but one shaped and formed by the various influences on us. This dynamic
is very interesting, where self views can vary based on situations encountered. Such
adaptability indicates that we change our behavior and perception of ourselves
much based on context, like social or academic settings. This fluidity in our identity
makes us aware, which becomes crucial in managing our lives appropriately. It
brings into view that getting better at knowing how the self-concept controls our
transactions with others is crucial. For example, in a group of friends, I can be more
outgoing and bold, whereas in a formal setting, I’ll be more reserved. This duality in
behavior illustrates how our environment can shape our self-expression. Further,
that our self-views can influence our perceptions and even our memories is pretty
fascinating. It reveals that how we think can tinge our experiences; thereby,
recollecting events in a way consistent with who we think we are. This realization
makes me introspect more about how I perceive my successes and failures. If I view
myself positively, I am more likely to remember successes vividly. Conversely,
negative self-views can overshadow accomplishments, leading to a distorted sense
of self. Understanding this relationship between self-perception and memory
encourages me to cultivate a more positive self-image. It also emphasizes the need
for self-compassion, as we all have moments of doubt and insecurity. I can better
enhance my overall well-being and hardiness by cultivating a kinder view of myself.
I recognize that this process is one of development, and that results don’t come
easy or overnight. Maintaining groundedness in self-identity through mindfulness
and reflection may serve as practice in staying identified with myself. Additionally,
being surrounded by supportive people may reinforce positive self-views. The
interaction of self-perception and external feedback determines our identity.
Seeking constructive criticism while being vigilant about the sources I listen to can
help maintain a healthy self-concept on my part. In essence, knowing that self and
identity change really gives me the strength and power to accept change and
growth; it encourages me to go through experiences that challenge the self-concept
of mine. I can venture outside my comfort zone and discover new aspects of my
identity. This discovery may evolve into personal growth and a greater
understanding of who I am. I learn that identity is not so much about who I am
today, but who I can become in the future. With this realization, I am motivated to
stay open to more possibilities and experiences.
Origination of the self: Origins are developmental, biological, intrapsychic,

and interpersonal. Early experiences in which we come to know our caregivers are
very crucial in the shaping of our self-perceptions. This realization strikes a chord
with me on the significance of nurturing environments within childhood. Positive
relations with one’s caregivers will help one develop a sound sense of self-worth,
whereas adverse interactions may lead to self-doubt. Another aspect is the biology
of identity through genes and brain function, reminding me that human behavior is
a complex task. It is interesting to think how genetics and nature can play a role in
personality traits or behaviors. Some people may be by nature more extroverted
and others by nature more introverted due to their genetic makeup. This makes me
appreciate diversity in personalities and behaviors. Besides, cultural influence plays
a crucial role in defining our values and modes of expression. Being raised in a
specific culture will determine how one perceives their life and position in the world.
This reflection of cultural identity brings me to the question of how background
defines not only beliefs but also behaviors. It also speaks to the urgency of
acceptance of diversity and the understanding of other people’s perspectives. The
factors that contribute to our self-concept reveal a lot more to the individual as well
as to others when we consider them. The combination of nature and nurture is
particularly interesting, in my opinion, because it suggests that who we are has a
two-sided influence through biology and experiences. This duality pushes me to
Reflection Paper #___6____
reflect on my life and the set of experiences that shaped my identity. I recognize
that my upbringing, education, and social interactions have all played significant
roles in my development. Understanding these influences allows me to take
ownership of my identity while also acknowledging the factors that have contributed
to it. This awareness fosters a sense of gratitude for the experiences that have
shaped me, both positive and negative. It also inspires me to create supportive
conditions for others because I feel that all the interchange makes an impact on
their self-concept. Finally, understanding the origins of the self reminds me that
identity has a tapestry made from all those threads of experience, biology, and
culture. Every thread contributes to the general picture of who I am. This
understanding inspires me to appreciate the complexity of human identity. It also
calls me to talk about identity with those around me, thus forging deeper
relationships. When we each come into a space and share our stories, we can learn
from one another, helping each other grow.
The three central motives of the self—coherence, agency, and communion—

are necessary for understanding our psychological health. The impulse for
coherence compels us toward seeking consistency between the self-views and
experiences. This pursuit of a positive self-image is tricky, especially given the
presence of negative beliefs. The desire for coherence propels us to think about the
relationship between our experience and our self-concept. Most people have
conflicting self-views, and that struggle is part of life. Needs for agency The third
category of needs- agency- puts an emphasis on autonomy and control in one’s life.
Feeling empowered to make choices and take action is important for growth and
fulfillment in life. If we feel we have more control over choices and decisions, we will
be more likely to work towards our goals and aspirations. Therefore, this realization
has motivated me to take charge of my choices and shape my future positively. I
realize that my choices affect my self-identity and overall happiness. Additionally,
the need for communion highlights our desire for connection and belonging.
Building meaningful relationships with others is vital for our emotional well-being.
These connections provide support, validation, and a sense of community. I find that
engaging with others helps me to better understand myself and my place in the
world. The interplay between these core motives shapes our experiences and
influences our mental health. The coherence, agency, and communion when we
achieve these aspects provide more fulfillment. A holistic approach to self and
identity prompts me toward prioritization of my well-being. Thereby I maintain a life
that is balanced in nourishing my sense of self as well as nurturing relationships
with others. It is important that we realize the motivations that are inter-related but
may, at times, influence one another. To illustrate, when I experience a strong sense
of agency, I seek out relationships in my life that reflect my values. Of course,
positive relationships enhance my sense of agency because they provide me with
reinforcement and encouragement for my actions. Thus, the combination of
personal autonomy and social connections becomes critical in self-understanding. In
short, understanding core self motives better enables me to navigate my identity
intentionally and purposefully. It inspires me to carry out introspection and seek
development at all other levels of my being. These motives will allow me to strive
toward a more authentic, fulfilling life. This journey is continuous, and I am
committed to deepening an understanding of myself as I continue to grow.

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Reflection Paper #_6__

Understanding The Self

Sorsogon State University

“My Self and My Identity”

Origination of the self: Origins are developmental, biological, intrapsychic,

The three central motives of the self—coherence, agency, and communion—

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