The Sense of Self: Reflected Self-Appraisal and Social Comparison

As someone navigates the social world, they may reflect on “who they are.” In reality, the narrative of one’s self is created as a product of construal processes.

That is, individuals construct their sense of self based on many influential sources, including main socialization agents—people like family members, friends, and teachers—as well as social contexts.

For instance, starting in her early years, the woman’s parents encouraged daily art lessons, attended every showing, and celebrated prestigious accomplishments. As a result, being an artist is at the core of her sense of self.

Along the course of obtaining self-knowledge, she may also be motivated to view herself favorably, in part through two convictions: reflection and social comparison.

On the one hand, in reflected self-appraisal—someone’s sense of self is likely based on their perceived beliefs about what others think of them. Here, when her friend laughs at her commentary, it’s like the observer’s reaction is mirrored back, and she believes she has a sense of humor.

Moreover, in another context, the same person may express a different characteristic. Now that her favorite professor is nearby, she shifts to a serious dem