Perceiving the Self and Others Chapter 2 Perceiving the Self and Others

Perception and communication We perceive ourselves and the world around us in unique ways We communicate based on our perceptions Our perceptions sometimes run counter to reality

Making sense of the world Communication Processing Gather, organize, and evaluate information Initial perceptions vs. later perceptions? Schemas Mental structures that help us to piece together related bits of information

Schemas Help us to interpret information Schemas change Good and bad Help you interpret but might also cloud your judgment Mindlessness – passive perceptions Mindfulness – Awareness Selective perception

Schemas Distorted perceptions Undue influence Attributions e.g. overestimations Undue influence Bestowing too much credibility Attributions Explanations why something is was said or done Internal vs. external attributions

Schemas Fundamental Attribution Error Self-serving bias Overestimating internal causes for actions of others Self-serving bias Overestimating external causes for our own actions

Discussion And you? (p. 37) Think back to your first impressions of two different people, one whom you immediately liked and one who made a negative impression. What roles might your schemas have played in these first impressions? Did these individuals remind you or other people you like or dislike? Did they exhibit traits that you have found attractive or unattractive in others?

Improving perceptions Look beyond obvious explanations Look beyond first impressions Question your assumptions

Perception in a diverse world Cultural myopia Belief that one’s own culture is appropriate and relevant in all situations Stereotyping Assumptions that people of a group share a set of attitudes, behaviors, skills, morals, and habits because of that group. Prejudice Feelings of unkindness and ill will toward group members

Cognitions about ourselves Self-concept Awareness and understanding of yourself Thoughts, actions, ideals, goals, etc. Self-esteem Similar to self-concept, but pertains more to specific situations Self-efficacy Ability to predict success – connected to self-concept and self-esteem Self-fulfilling prophecy

Self-perceptions Self-actualization Self-adequacy Self-denigration Did you handle it the best you could? Self-adequacy Breeds contentment or desire for improvement Self-denigration Criticizing or attacking oneself

Maslow’s hierarchy of needs

Behavior: Managing Our identities Self-presentation Communication for specific purposes Occurs through various channels Requires self-monitoring What could go wrong? Self-Disclosure Willing revealing Must not be information readily known Sharing must be voluntary

Social penetration theory