Like with many other things, we also hold schemas about ourselves.
Inpsychology, these are known as self-schemas.
These self-schemata impact our thoughts and behaviors.
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Everyone’s self-schemas are different and just one portion of our self-concept.
They’re formed by our experiences and relationships with others.
Self-schemas are important because they influence our behaviors.
The more we believe that a self-schema applies to us, the better we will perform on that dimension.
Additionally, if we develop a negative or unhealthy self-schema, it can be changed.
So, if you want to change these self-beliefs, making them more positive, it is possible.
If a person does not hold a schema for a particular dimension, they are said to be aschematic.
Here are three to consider.
Self-Schemas Form Our Self-Concept
All our various self-schemas combine and interact to form ourself-concept.
Early childhood relationships, social relationships, and life experiences are a few key factors.
Social Relationships
Psychologists suggest that our self-schemas arise from oursocial relationships.
As you live your life, you meet new people and become part of new social groups.
The feedback you receive from others plays a part in modifying your sense of self.
Life Experiences
Self-schemas are also shaped by the various roles we play throughout life.
Can You Change Negative Self-Schema?
Fortunately, if you develop a negative or unhealthy self-schema, it can be changed.
But how much do these ideas really influence how we behave?
Imagine that you are providing these answers only to yourself and not to another person.
Once you are done, you should have a fairly good representation of some of your central self-schemas.
So what can you do if your self-schemas are negative or unhelpful?
There are a number of strategies that can help you change and overcome negative or harmful self-beliefs.
If you are still struggling with negative self-schema, talking to a mental health professional can be helpful.
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