The Dilemma of Self-Perception

Abstract

The admonition to “know thyself” has existed for a long time and yet most findings reveal that the majority are very poor self-evaluators. A person of relatively high status may decline to admit a weakness for fear that change will undermine his position. An “unsuccessful person” may be threatened still more by a full realization of his inadequacies. Conversely, the “successful person” may feel so secure that further change and development are not a threat but a challenge. Thus, there are many pros and cons to the questions of whether an adult can, or should, change. Further, we should recognize that the self concept is one of the important and critical factors.