Re-Evaluation Based on Self-Concept

Abstract

As described in the previous chapter, one can re-evaluate oneself in ways to increase positive affect (or decrease negative affect) in a particular life domain. In the previous chapter the focus was on using this strategy by manipulating expectancies based on one’s personal history. In this chapter I will describe a similar strategy, however the focus here will be on manipulating expectancies based on one’s self-concept. Specifically, I will describe how people enhance their subjective well being by re-evaluations in relation to their ideal self, social self, deserved self, minimum tolerable self, predicted self, competent self, and aspired self. I will also address the issue of self-concept integration and how it affects subjective well being.