Self-authenticity and the Michelangelo Phenomenon

Abstract

This chapter reviews research examining how close relationships have the capacity to facilitate self-authenticity, an experience of genuinely being and feeling like one’s real self. Often conceptualized as an intrapersonal pursuit, the drive toward authenticity may be better cast as an interpersonal process, given the potential role of romantic partners to promote this type of self-growth. This chapter begins by situating self-authenticity within the broader context of the field, discussing its conceptualization as both an individual-difference variable and a state, and presenting its links to personal and relational well-being. The chapter then provides a theoretical and empirical overview of the Michelangelo phenomenon, a dynamic in which individuals offer positive perceptual and behavioral affirmation of their romantic partners, who in turn experience greater proximity to their ideal self. Conceptual and evidence-based links between the ideal self and self-authenticity provide a backdrop for the enhanced self-authenticity hypothesis, which contends that the Michelangelo phenomenon benefits partners not only by facilitating movement toward their ideal selves, but also by promoting self-authenticity. Potential personal and relationship consequences are discussed as well as directions for future study of interpersonally-facilitated self-authenticity.