Synonyms
Definition
Self-understanding is the individual’s cognitive representation of the self which includes awareness of one’s characteristics, traits, talents and abilities, as well as thoughts and attitudes that one has about the self.
Description
Self-understanding focuses on the cognitive processes involved in personal identity and individuation as opposed to other-oriented processes of social understanding. It emerges in early childhood and develops through late adolescence as the individual has various experiences and as cognitive processes mature. Self-understanding includes self-evaluation that is foundational to self development, including self-worth and self-esteem.
Relevance to Childhood Development
Most research on the development of self-understanding focuses on early childhood through late adolescence, ages 4–18. Self-understanding emerges in childhood and develops through late adolescence as children become increasingly aware of their own...
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References
Damon, W., & Hart, D. (1988). Self-understanding in childhood and adolescence. New York: Cambridge University Press.
James, W. (1985). Psychology: The briefer course. Notre Dame: University of Notre Dame Press (Originally published, 1892).
Mead, G. H. (1934). Mind, self, and society. Chicago: University of Chicago Press.
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Curtis-Tweed, P. (2011). Self-Understanding. In: Goldstein, S., Naglieri, J.A. (eds) Encyclopedia of Child Behavior and Development. Springer, Boston, MA. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-0-387-79061-9_2566
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-0-387-79061-9_2566
Publisher Name: Springer, Boston, MA
Print ISBN: 978-0-387-77579-1
Online ISBN: 978-0-387-79061-9
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