BACUS, MARIEBELLE B.

UNDERSTANDING THE SELF - ASM1

2024-00736 DECEMBER 02, 2024

INTEGRATIVE REFLECTION PAPER IN UNDERSTANDING THE SELF

First thing that we have studied are various thinkers that have shaped the
philosophical exploration of the self, each offering unique insights that have
resonated across centuries. Socrates' idea of "know thyself" emphasizes
self-knowledge as essential for leading a virtuous and meaningful life. He viewed the
soul as the essence of the self, immortal and striving for wisdom and perfection
through reason. Building on this, Plato divided the self into reason, spirit, and
appetite, suggesting that happiness is achieved when reason controls the other
elements. St. Augustine integrated the notion of the soul with Christian thought,
emphasizing that self-knowledge begins with the knowledge of God. On the other
hand, Descartes highlighted self-consciousness with his famous statement, "I think
therefore I am," positioning the self as a thinking entity distinct from the body. Locke
contributed to the idea that consciousness and memory shape personal identity. At
the same time, Hume argued that the self is merely a bundle of perceptions,
challenging the notion of a fixed identity. Kant believed that the self actively
constructs reality, transcending mere sensory experience.

Moreover, what truly resonates with me is the intersection of the idea of

self-knowledge and the quest for virtue. Socrates’ insistence that an unexamined life
is not worth living strikes a profound chord. It serves as a reminder that our deepest
purpose lies in self-reflection, constantly questioning who we are, and striving to be
better. The idea of the self as not just a collection of thoughts, but as an immortal
soul, striving for wisdom and purpose, offers a sense of timeless significance. In
today's world, where distractions abound, the notion that true fulfillment comes from
introspection and aligning oneself with higher ideals, like Plato’s reason controlling
passion, is something that touches my heart. It emphasizes that amidst the noise of
life, the path to peace and meaning starts from within; an insight that is both
comforting and motivating.

In addition to that information, we also had a lesson about the sociological

self. The sociological view of the self asserts that identity is not innate or solely
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2024-00736 DECEMBER 02, 2024

biological, but is deeply shaped by social interaction. According to sociologists like

Charles Horton Cooley and George Herbert Mead, the self emerges through one's
interactions with others. Cooley introduced the "looking-glass self," suggesting that
people form their self-image based on how they perceive others view them. These
perceptions, however, can be skewed, leading to negative self-images if individuals
mistakenly believe others judge them unfavorably. Mead further developed this idea
with his theory of the social self, which divides the self into two components: the “I”
and the “me.” The “I” is the spontaneous, active aspect of the self, representing
individuality and unique traits, while the “me” is the internalized set of societal
expectations, reflecting how a person understands others' perspectives and the
norms they must navigate.

George Herbert Mead's theory, especially the idea of the "I" and the "me," is
what speaks to me because it emphasizes the fine line that separates individual
liberty from social influence. The complex process of self-discovery is reflected in the
notion that our self-awareness is created through interactions, where our spontaneity
the "I," meets the social structures surrounding us the "me." Given the reason that it
highlights the value of both our uniqueness and the understanding that we are a part
of a larger social fabric, it is heartwarming. The idea that the self can be a
harmonious fusion of social responsibility and personal expression gives hope in our
contemporary world, where we frequently feel pressured to fit in. I find it reassuring
and empowering that identity is not static but rather a dynamic, changing process
that develops via meaningful social interactions.

Next, we also discussed the anthropological perspective, the concept of self is

examined through two lenses, egocentric and sociocentric. The egocentric view
presents the self as an independent, autonomous individual, with inherent
characteristics and the ability to act apart from others; it emphasizes individualism
and personal identity as separate from social contexts. On the other hand, the
socio-centric view, which is common in cultures like Japanese and Chinese
societies, sees the self as contingent upon social interactions and settings. In this
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2024-00736 DECEMBER 02, 2024

perspective, identity is not fixed but shaped by relationships with others, including
kinship, family, and community. The concept of a "social identity toolbox" refers to the
various elements, such as gender, age, language, and ethnicity, that individuals
emphasize when constructing their social identity. Additionally, self-identification is
strongly influenced by cultural practices, such as personal naming, which helps
establish one’s role and identity within a society. Identity is also dynamic, as people
undergo rites of passage that mark significant changes, such as entering adulthood
or marriage, through rituals that transition individuals into new social roles.

The idea of self-identification strikes a deep chord with me; it is especially

poignant since it emphasizes how crucial social and personal recognition are in
defining who we are. Selecting facets of our identities that are consistent with our
inner selves while also taking into account cultural norms and expectations is a
common step in the self-identification process. Rituals such as naming and rites of
passage, which bind people to their culture and community, are exquisite examples
of this dual aspect of identity, personal and social. These activities serve as a
reminder to me that our identities are not merely personal; rather, they are entwined
with the roles and relationships we assume in life. The ability of rituals, such as
weddings or graduations, to cement these changes and signify our development and
metamorphosis as individuals within a larger collective is what moves me. These
rituals have deep emotional meaning that influences our sense of identity and
belonging; they are more than just ceremonies; they are reflections of who we are
becoming.

Furthermore, the psychological theories of the self, such as those proposed

by William James, Carl Rogers, and Albert Bandura, offer insightful perspectives on
how individuals understand and grow their sense of self. William James divided the
self into the "I-Self" and "Me-Self," with the "I-Self" representing the thinking, active
self that is the core of identity, while the "Me-Self" reflects the empirical aspects of
one's experience, such as the material, social, and spiritual selves. Carl Rogers
further elaborated on this with his concept of the real and ideal self, emphasizing that
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2024-00736 DECEMBER 02, 2024

self-actualization occurs when there is congruence between the two. Bandura's

concept of the self as proactive and agentic stands out, as it positions individuals as
active agents of their experiences. In this view, people are not passive recipients of
their circumstances but can shape their own futures through intentional actions,
self-regulation, and self-reflection. This framework underscores the importance of
agency—our ability to make choices, anticipate consequences, and reflect on our
actions, fostering a sense of personal control over our lives.

What really captivates me is the concept of the self as proactive and agentic,
introduced by Albert Bandura. This perspective emphasizes that we are not simply
shaped by external forces or passively reacting to life's events but are active
participants in constructing our reality. It is empowering to think of the self as a
proactive agent capable of setting goals, making intentional decisions, and adapting
behaviors to meet those goals. The idea that we have the ability to reflect on our
thoughts and actions, evaluate our choices, and adjust accordingly gives us the
potential to transform our lives. It also highlights the role of self-efficacy—the belief in
our ability to achieve tasks and influence outcomes—as a key motivator. This notion
resonates deeply because it places responsibility in our hands, emphasizing that we
have the power to take charge of our lives and actively shape the path we wish to
walk. It instills a sense of hope and control, which is crucial in today's fast-paced and
often unpredictable world.

Going forward, two essentially distinct perspectives on identity, derived from

opposing philosophical, cultural, and spiritual traditions, are represented by the
Western and Eastern conceptions of the self. The self is frequently viewed in
Western philosophy as an independent, self-governing entity that places a high value
on uniqueness and self-actualization. Western philosophy, as put forward by thinkers
like Descartes and Locke, frequently uses analytical, deductive, and scientific
techniques to examine the self. Self-actualization and personal achievement are
emphasized, and the self is viewed as a separate and autonomous entity within the
world. Eastern philosophy, on the other hand, emphasizes the relational and
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interrelated aspect of the self and is found in schools such as Buddhism, Hinduism,
Confucianism, and Taoism. Here, the ego is viewed constantly in relation to other
people, society, and the cosmos rather than in isolation. Eastern traditions, which
prioritize harmony, balance, and transcendence over individual success or autonomy,
promote self-transformation via introspection, meditation, and mindfulness.

One aspect of Eastern thought that stands out to me is the Buddhist concept
of "no-self" or "anatta," which suggests that the self is not a permanent, unchanging
entity but rather a collection of ever-changing elements. The notion of impermanence
or what they call “anicca” in Buddhism teaches that everything, including our sense
of self, is fluid and transient. This understanding invites a deep sense of humility and
liberation, as it frees individuals from the pressure of holding onto a fixed identity.
What also deeply resonates with me is the Taoist perspective, where the self is
considered an extension of the cosmos, and the ideal is to live in harmony with the
Tao. The emphasis on simplicity, spontaneity, and unity with nature challenges the
often stressful and competitive individualism seen in Western cultures. This view
offers an enriching alternative—prioritizing collective well-being, inner peace, and a
sense of belonging within the greater whole of existence, rather than striving for
personal success or distinction.

As we go deeper, our discussion began to be more personal, the physical self.

One essential component of who we are is our physical self, which includes our body
and all of its organs, including our heart, brain, and muscles. The body gradually
changes as we age, which has an impact on how well it functions physically. From
early childhood to late adulthood, these changes show up in diverse ways at different
phases of life. The influence of physical growth and development—which is a result
of a confluence of inherited characteristics and environmental elements including
nutrition, illness, and experiences—particularly drew my attention. According to
Elizabeth B. Hurlock, the complex interplay between genes and environment
develops our physical selves, and this growth trajectory is characterized by many
phases, ranging from prenatal to late adulthood. The way the body develops and
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2024-00736 DECEMBER 02, 2024

operates during these phases has a significant impact on how we see and engage
with the outside environment.

One of the most striking aspects of the physical self is body image, which
significantly ties into self-esteem. How we perceive, think, and feel about our
physical appearance influences our overall self-worth. The media, peer pressure,
and societal standards often promote unrealistic beauty ideals that shape our
perceptions of beauty. This can lead to body dissatisfaction, especially among
adolescents, causing issues like depression, low self-esteem, and eating disorders.
What stands out is how body image isn't just about the physical self—it extends to
how we evaluate our worth. The connection between poor body image and mental
health problems, particularly in women and younger individuals, is alarming. It shows
that beyond physical appearance, the emotional and psychological toll on
self-esteem is profound. It is important to recognize that beauty is more than
skin-deep, and true self-worth should stem from within, focusing on qualities beyond
physical appearance.

On the other hand, puberty initiates the maturation of the reproductive system
and the emergence of main and secondary sex characteristics, marking a major shift
in the development of sex characteristics and the human reproductive system during
adolescence. The genitalia that are directly involved in reproduction, such as the
penis and testes in men and the vagina and ovaries in women, are among the
primary sex traits that are present from birth. Secondary sex traits, like the
development of facial hair and a deeper voice in males and the enlargement of
breasts and the onset of the menstrual cycle in women, occur throughout
adolescence. These changes are mostly caused by hormones that affect sexual
drive and reproductive capacity, such as estrogen and testosterone. The ovaries,
fallopian tubes, penis, and testes are only a few of the organs that make up the
reproductive system, which functions in concert to promote sexual activity and
reproduction and guarantee the survival of the species.
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What really caught my attention is the concept of attraction, love, and

attachment. As individuals mature, they begin to explore the complexities of
emotional and physical connections, with attraction being one of the first steps in
forming these relationships. During adolescence, the experience of sexual attraction
can spark new feelings of intimacy and desire, which evolve as individuals grow
older. Psychologist Robert Sternberg’s triangular theory of love, which includes
intimacy, passion, and commitment, provides a profound framework for
understanding the different dimensions of love. The intimacy component is
particularly compelling because it highlights the emotional closeness and connection
that forms the foundation of love, while passion deals with the drive for romance and
sexual attraction. The commitment aspect ensures that love evolves into a lasting
bond. This development of attraction and emotional intimacy shows that love is not
merely about physical attraction but also about deep emotional and psychological
connections that become even more important as relationships mature.

The idea of this subject grows more comprehensive as we progress from

comprehending the sexual self to the material self. William James asserts that the
material self encompasses not just our physical selves but also everything we may
claim as our own, including our reputation, family, belongings, and even our
sentimental ties to items like homes, vehicles, and clothing. Learning to embrace and
value their bodies as a component of their material selves is a big struggle for
teenagers. But a lot of people have trouble doing this because they are constantly
worried about how they look and how they stack up against others. The people in our
lives, the clothes we wear, and even our pets become extensions of who we are,
sending out social cues that influence how other people see us. A person's identity is
also greatly influenced by their material belongings, which include homes,
automobiles, and electronics. These items represent not just their own preferences
but also their success and social standing.

What particularly stood out to me is the effects of material possessions, as

these have a profound impact on an individual's sense of self and well-being.
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Possessions can serve as status symbols, with more expensive items often seen as
indicators of success, making people feel validated or admired by others. While
achieving material possessions can motivate individuals to work harder, focusing too
much on them can lead to materialism, where one becomes excessively fixated on
acquiring more, often at the expense of emotional well-being. The desire for material
goods can result in negative consequences such as compulsive buying disorder,
where individuals buy excessively, leading to financial strain and anxiety. It was
fascinating to realize how materialism can shape people's lives so significantly, both
in terms of ambition and personal satisfaction, yet also contribute to psychological
distress when possessions are lost or become too central to a person’s identity.

As we move from the material self to the deeper realms of the spiritual self,
spirituality is an essential aspect of human existence that connects individuals to a
higher power or force. Originating from the Latin word "spiritus," which means breath
or life energy, spirituality is the pursuit of the sacred, a path where individuals
investigate and attempt to preserve or change the things they value most in their
lives. Many people believe that God and transcendence define the sacred,
particularly in Christian traditions where spirituality is associated with reverence,
worship, and faith. People can connect with the divine and gain a greater sense of
meaning and purpose by engaging in practices like prayer, reading sacred texts, and
participating in religious ceremonies. Spirituality is not a solo endeavor; rather, it is
influenced by interactions with family, community, and religious institutions,
highlighting the importance of these social ties in promoting spiritual development.

What truly captivates me is the idea of nurturing the spiritual self, which holds
an equally important role in a person's overall well-being. Understanding and
nurturing one’s spiritual self is not merely about religious practices, but about
fostering a deep connection to the universe and a sense of unity with something
larger than oneself. This awareness offers a person a sense of purpose and direction
in life, helping to guide moral choices and personal growth. Interestingly, spirituality
is not limited to organized religion but also encompasses beliefs in animism, where
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individuals might attribute spirits to natural elements or creatures. This notion is

particularly fascinating because it highlights how spiritual beliefs can persist, even in
the face of modern scientific progress, and reflect an ongoing human need to
connect with forces beyond the tangible world. Nurturing this spiritual connection
provides profound peace and a meaningful existence, regardless of one's specific
spiritual or religious framework.

As we delved into the political self, I found that it plays a pivotal role in
shaping how individuals understand and interact with their government and society.
The political self is defined by a person's knowledge of the Constitution, governance,
and the political system, encompassing their rights, freedoms, and obligations as
citizens. This aspect of self-awareness helps individuals understand the power
structures in their society and their role within it. Citizenship is a central component
of the political self, as it ties individuals to the political community and defines their
status, identity, and the responsibilities they carry. Through this lens, the political self
is a reflection of societal ideals, with each person’s understanding of their role often
being influenced by political socialization.

What stands out to me is the profound impact of social interaction in the

development of the political self. From a young age, individuals are shaped by their
interactions with family, school, peers, and media, which collectively influence their
political views and behaviors. These socializing agents provide the framework
through which individuals learn about political authority, duties, and the rights they
hold as citizens. The family, for instance, instills early lessons in authority and
respect, while schools and the church impart moral and political values that shape
one’s civic identity. Peers and mass media also play crucial roles, especially as
people mature, offering diverse perspectives and reinforcing the political norms of
the community. This dynamic interplay of social forces helps define the political self,
emphasizing how interconnected our personal political beliefs are with the larger
social context in which we live.
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Conversely, the digital self is a new aspect of the self that has unavoidably
emerged as digital technology has become more pervasive in our daily lives. Social
media and other online platforms allow Filipino young to express their digital selves
by sharing personal information like names, birthdays, likes, and dislikes. This
sharing frequently results from a strong desire for acceptance and approval from
others, which is typical in adolescence but can also occur in adulthood. People can
curate and convey their identities to a large online audience through the digital self,
which can occasionally cause a detachment from in-person, real-world relationships.
It's difficult to picture life without digital technology, especially mobile phones, which
have become so ingrained in daily life. People can use these platforms to remain in
touch, stay informed, and share life events with friends, family, and even complete
strangers.

What truly stands out to me is the profound influence of digital technology in

shaping the way we communicate and relate to one another. While mobile phones
and social networking sites provide unparalleled convenience in staying connected,
they also come with a significant downside. The convenience of digital
communication often replaces more meaningful, face-to-face interactions, which can
diminish the quality of relationships. Additionally, the rapid spread of false
information, identity theft, and the rise of fake news are some of the negative
consequences that have come with the rise of digital technology. These issues
highlight the importance of educating users on how to navigate the digital space
responsibly and protect their privacy. It’s clear that while digital technology offers
many benefits, it also requires careful management to ensure that its impact on
social behaviors remains positive and healthy.

In understanding the process of learning, it is essential to recognize that

learning is not just about acquiring knowledge but also about adapting to new
experiences. According to the module, the behaviorists believed that learning is a
permanent change in behavior due to practice or experience, while cognitive
psychologists view it as a process leading to change from experience. This
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transformation plays a vital role in personal growth and development, as it allows

individuals to acquire new skills and knowledge, thereby enhancing their ability to
thrive in their environments. This process is constant, starting at birth and continuing
throughout life, helping individuals adapt, grow, and contribute to advancements in
knowledge, technology, and society. What particularly catches my attention is the
concept of neuroplasticity, where the brain constantly reorganizes and strengthens
itself as a response to learning. The cerebral cortex, responsible for complex
information processing, undergoes changes that allow for improved cognitive
functions, showcasing the brain's remarkable ability to learn and adapt.

Furthermore, I found that metacognition is an intriguing aspect of learning that

greatly influences how effective and strategic a person becomes in their learning
process. Metacognition refers to the awareness and regulation of one's own thinking.
It's the ability to reflect on the thought processes involved in learning, which allows
individuals to assess their strengths, weaknesses, and the strategies they use to
learn. This self-awareness is powerful because it empowers students to take control
of their learning by adjusting their approaches for better outcomes. Coupled with
self-regulated learning (SRL), where individuals guide their thoughts, emotions, and
actions to meet academic goals, metacognition becomes a tool for academic
success. It helps students stay focused, motivated, and flexible in their learning
strategies, making it a key factor in becoming a better student. This deeper level of
self-awareness and regulation is something I find especially fascinating, as it
emphasizes how critical it is to not only learn but also understand how we learn.

As we go on to goal-setting for success, motivation is essential for guiding an

individual's actions toward reaching their intended results. Goals serve as the
objective that a person works toward, and they frequently have deadlines associated
with them. It's important to understand the difference between short-term and
long-term goals because the former can usually be accomplished in a day, week, or
year, while the latter may take a year or longer. Both kinds of objectives aid people in
formulating plans that will improve their performance and enable them to move
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closer to their dreams. People's ideals, desires, and the drive that comes from a
perceived lack of something are frequently what motivates them as they strive
toward their objectives. Maslow's hierarchy of needs shows how human motivation is
closely linked to individual needs and aspirations by offering a framework for
comprehending how basic physiological needs must be met before people may seek
more complex psychological and self-actualization goals. Maslow's hierarchy of
needs shows how human motivation is closely linked to individual needs and
aspirations by offering a framework for comprehending how basic physiological
needs must be met before people may seek more complex psychological and
self-actualization goals.

What particularly stands out to me is the concept of goal setting and the idea
that for it to be truly effective, goals need to be SMART—Specific, Measurable,
Attainable, Relevant, and Time-bound. This framework provides a structured
approach to goal setting, ensuring that goals are not only realistic but also have a
clear path for achievement. The motivational impact of goal setting is significantly
influenced by factors such as self-efficacy and mindset. Self-efficacy, defined by
psychologist Albert Bandura, emphasizes the importance of believing in one’s ability
to successfully perform tasks that lead to desired results. Additionally, Carol Dweck's
theory of mindset, which distinguishes between fixed and growth mindsets, reveals
how an individual's belief in their capacity for growth can determine their
perseverance in the face of challenges. These psychological factors highlight the
importance of mental resilience in goal achievement, making goal setting not just
about the result but about cultivating the right mindset and confidence along the
journey.

When it comes to managing stress, I have come to realize how various

events, whether major life changes or daily hassles, can trigger different stress
responses. These stressors can range from personal challenges, like family conflicts
or financial difficulties, to external pressures, such as school deadlines or traffic. The
way I perceive and cope with these stressors significantly affects how I respond.
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What particularly caught my attention was the concept of defense mechanisms,

which are unconscious strategies we use to protect ourselves from anxiety or
uncomfortable emotions. For example, I’ve noticed how I sometimes use denial or
repression to avoid painful truths or push negative thoughts away. While these
mechanisms may offer temporary relief, I’ve learned they can prevent me from
processing my emotions fully. Defense mechanisms like rationalization or projection
also stand out, as they allow me to explain away my actions or place blame on
others to protect my self-esteem, but I realize these habits can prolong emotional
distress if not addressed.

In addition to defense mechanisms, I have found that it is important to

recognize the different strategies I can use to cope with stress. These can be
problem-focused, where I actively seek solutions, or emotion-focused, where I work
on relieving my emotional distress through techniques like relaxation or physical
activities. One thing that resonated with me is self-compassion—the practice of
being kind to myself during difficult times instead of being angry or self-critical. I’ve
learned that by practicing self-compassion, I can be more resilient and better handle
the pressures life throws my way. Combining this with other strategies like
mindfulness, prayer, journaling, and maintaining healthy habits has helped me take a
more holistic approach to managing stress. I have noticed it supports both my
physical and emotional well-being, helping me navigate life’s challenges with greater
ease.