Module 1- Communication and Self Concept

Table of Contents

1. Think About It!
2. In this Module
3. Becoming an Effective Communicator
   1. Why We Communicate
   2. The Communication Process
   3. Communication Principles and Misconceptions
   4. Communication Competence
   5. Self-Awareness: Who Are You?
   6. The Development of Self-Concept
   7. Characteristics of Self-Concept
   8. Self-Esteem Development
   9. Self-fulfilling Prophecy
   10. Changing Your Self-Concept and Attitude
4. Resources used in preparing this Module

Characteristics of Self-Concept

The self-concept is subjective. This means that your self-concept is based on ideas not facts. In many aspects of life, individuals view themselves more positively or negatively than what the reality is. There are many reasons why this can occur:

• Obsolete information
• Distorted feedback
• Self-verification
• Emphasis on perfection
• Social Expectations

The self-concept resists change. The need to change may not be perceived as a problem, so the person tends to cling to the existing self-image regardless of whether it is functioning or obsolete.