What does "self-concept" refer to in personality psychology?

In personality psychology, "self-concept" refers to an individual's perceptions of their personal identity, encompassing the beliefs, attributes, and self-image that they hold about themselves. This concept includes elements such as how one sees their personality traits, values, motivations, and experiences, which contribute to a comprehensive understanding of who they are as a person.

The self-concept is crucial because it influences behavior, shapes emotional responses, and affects how individuals relate to others and navigate their environments. It is formed through personal experiences, social interactions, and feedback from others, and it can evolve over time as individuals gain new insights about themselves.

The other options do not capture the essence of self-concept accurately. While beliefs and values about others (first option) relate more to social cognition than personal identity, an understanding of one’s family background (third option) may contribute to self-concept but is not synonymous with it. A temporary state of mind (fourth option) refers to a momentary emotional or cognitive state rather than a stable sense of self. Thus, the definition focusing on personal identity is the most accurate portrayal of self-concept within personality psychology.