Human Communication Chapter 4 >> The Self

The self is perhaps the most important element in any form of communication. It focuses on the way in which you and other perceive yourself. The self in Human Communication is who you are and how you see yourself influence not only the way you communication, but also how you respond to the communication of the others. First we'll explore the self: the-self concept and how it develops; self-awareness and way to increase it; self-esteem and ways to enhance it; and self-disclosure, or communication that reveals who you are.

(1) Self-Concept is the image of who you are. The area that affects self-concept: (a) Social Comparison- adjust image & thinking the way society act & thinks. (b) Other images of you- compare ourselves with friends, peers. (c) Self interpretation and evaluation- based on own belief & comprehension. (d) Cultural teaching- belief, attitudes to success the self-concept.

(2) Self- Awareness is the ability discover personal development or from other opinion.
      - open arena (open self)
      - Facade (hidden self)
      - blind spot (blind self) eg: rub nose/ touch face when nervous
      - unknown (unknown self)

Growing in self-awareness: A. listen to other, B. increase open self (share idea), C. seek info about yourself (psychological test), D. dialogue with yourself (intrapersonal)

(3) Self-esteem measure how much you value, respect & feel confident about yourself.
     * over high self-esteem; self-destructive beliefs harm yourself.
Increase self-esteem; a) attack self-destructive beliefs, b) seek out nourishing people (those success), c) remind yourself your success (target), d) secure affirmation, e) work on project thar will result in success.

(4) Self-disclosure is telling your hidden self. Factors influencing;
a. who you are.
b. your culture.
c. your gender.
d. your  listener (small/large group)
e. your topic & channel

Advantages:
- Gain confidence
- Strength friendship
- More truthful about yourself

Disadvantage:
- Lost friends, trust
- Additional pressure, burden
- Living with regret (personal, relationship, professional)