Experiencing Self-Definition Problems over the Life Span

Abstract

Throughout the lifespan, defining a clear self-view plays a key role in both selfconcept and identity development. Yet, people may encounter problems of selfdefinition when constructing an image of themselves as result of contrasts or ambiguities in their ideas about themselves. In this study, differences in the occurrence and types of self-definition problems were investigated in a sample of 733 Dutch participants, divided into four groups aged 17, 40, 55, and 70 years respectively. To measure self-definition problems, we developed a self-report instrument that investigated a range of problems drawn from two distinct research traditions: self-concept development and identity formation. The results revealed that participants experienced only a modest number of the presented problems. They showed, nevertheless, a clear age pattern: the adolescents distinguished themselves from the adult age groups by their concern with the problem of multiplicity, whereas during adulthood the problem of personal authenticity gave way to that of existential vacuum in old age. This pattern corresponds well with the temporal profile in the dynamics of lifespan development and Erikson's model of ego development.

Authenticity and Its Discontent as Reflected on Heinrich Böll’s The Laugher

“…The concept of bad faith is enclosed with idea of self-definition. In definite cases, humans with their self-reflective ability will never stop asking about who they really are as practice of finding self-determination (Soenens & Vansteenkiste, 2010;van Halen et al, 2020). They must do it to define themselves that should be unique or at least being different from other persons.…”

“…Self-image is how someone sees himself/herself through own eyes or from others' perspectives. Self-consistency is indicated in how embracing identities are actualized through abundant growing over practices (Mruk, 1995;van Halen et al, 2020). Self-esteem is much similar to self-confidence in which every side of someone's understanding to himself/herself is defined in the best condition of certain continuations.…”

“…13 No. 1 2023 self-definition only by being defined by demand of the others (van Halen et al, 2020).…”

Adolescents' needs for information and psychosocial support during their mother's breast cancer trajectory: A systematic review

“…14,16,17 Many find themselves in a situation in which it is difficult to identify and share thoughts and emotions with peers, which usually is a normal part of an adolescent's developmental process of becoming more self-reliant. 7,14,16,18 Access to reliable information is important for adolescents to cope with their mother's breast cancer, 4,7,19,20 but many parents experience difficulties communicating with their children about breast cancer. 15,19,[21][22][23][24] The potential for high dissonance between the developmental needs of the adolescent, the fear of losing their mother, and the lack of information and a place to share thoughts and feelings can interrupt adolescent development.…”

“…Adolescents of ill mothers tend to neglect themselves in favor of the sick parent or the family 14,16,17 . Many find themselves in a situation in which it is difficult to identify and share thoughts and emotions with peers, which usually is a normal part of an adolescent's developmental process of becoming more self‐reliant 7,14,16,18 . Access to reliable information is important for adolescents to cope with their mother's breast cancer, 4,7,19,20 but many parents experience difficulties communicating with their children about breast cancer 15,19,21–24 .…”