The Looking Glass Self

The concept of the looking-glass self describes how an individual's self-concept is shaped by their perception of how others see them. This psychological theory, first introduced by sociologist Charles Horton Cooley in 1902, posits that self-identity emerges in a social context and is influenced by the judgments—real or imagined—of others.

Research suggests that individuals frequently overestimate how positively others perceive them. This is particularly evident in physical self-perception, where people often believe they are more attractive than they are. This overestimation is partly due to others' tendency to express compliments while withholding criticism. As a result, self-image may become inflated, reinforcing a perception that aligns more with social desirability than objective reality.

Self-perception is primarily shaped through society, beginning in childhood. Initially, parents and family members are the primary influence, forming a child's earliest understanding of self-worth and identity. As children grow, peer interactions, teachers, and societal expectations shape their self-concept. The expanding influence of social groups continues into adulthood, with colleagues, authority figures, and digital platforms reinforcing or altering self-perception. Social media plays a particularly significant role in modern self-identity by providing a curated space where individuals seek validation through likes, comments, and digital interactions.