2.1: Introduction to Communication and Self
The Search for "Self"
A simple Google search for self-help websites yields over 1,330,000,000 results. A search on Amazon for self-help books results in over 100,000 books. There are hundreds of quotes on self-concept and self-esteem available to purchase as wall art. It would be safe to say that the search for “self,” or the betterment of oneself, can be a lifelong journey. Like many journeys in life, there are hills and valleys, or bumps in the road that can impact how quickly we get to our destination. But what influences how we see ourselves? How much of ourselves is a product of our own making and how much of it is constructed based on how others interact with us? Can societal forces influence our sense of self, and if so, how do we manage how we present ourselves to others? We will begin to answer these questions in this chapter as we explore the self.
By studying the different concepts in this chapter, you will learn that your background, upbringing, family, friends, and teachers have been an integral part of the journey informing who you are. Interpersonal communication is an integral part of our self-concept and identity. Communication helps to form our self-concept, and in turn, how we see ourselves on any given day will shape how we communicate with others. You will also see that mass media, advertising, and social media platforms greatly influence your sense of self. As you progress through this chapter you will gain a better understanding of who you are through our communication with yourselves and others.