LIFE ORIENTATION | DEVELOPMENT OF THE SELF IN SOCIETY
GRADE 12 STUDY NOTES
The Journey of Self-Discovery in Society
Introduction
The development of self within society is a dynamic and multifaceted journey that plays a pivotal
role in shaping individuals' identities and interactions. This process involves understanding one's
own values, beliefs, and personality while navigating the intricate web of societal norms, roles,
and expectations.
1. Self-Concept and Identity:
- Self-concept refers to how an individual perceives themselves, including their physical
appearance, personality traits, and abilities.
- Identity is the complex amalgamation of factors that define who a person is, encompassing
aspects such as cultural background, gender, interests, and experiences.
- Society's influence on self-identity: Individuals often shape their identities in response to
societal expectations, cultural influences, and peer groups.
2. Role of Self-Esteem:
- Self-esteem is a crucial component of the development of self. It refers to an individual's
overall evaluation of their self-worth.
- Positive self-esteem is linked to healthier mental and emotional well-being, enabling
individuals to cope with challenges and embrace their uniqueness.
- Society's impact on self-esteem: Media portrayal, societal standards, and comparisons with
others can either boost or hinder self-esteem.
3. Emotional Intelligence:
- Emotional intelligence involves recognizing, understanding, and managing one's own emotions
as well as understanding and influencing the emotions of others.
- Developing emotional intelligence facilitates effective communication, empathy, and conflict
resolution in various social settings.
- Society's role in emotional intelligence: Cultural norms and societal attitudes towards emotions
can shape an individual's emotional intelligence.
GRADE 12 STUDY NOTES
The Journey of Self-Discovery in Society
Introduction
The development of self within society is a dynamic and multifaceted journey that plays a pivotal
role in shaping individuals' identities and interactions. This process involves understanding one's
own values, beliefs, and personality while navigating the intricate web of societal norms, roles,
and expectations.
1. Self-Concept and Identity:
- Self-concept refers to how an individual perceives themselves, including their physical
appearance, personality traits, and abilities.
- Identity is the complex amalgamation of factors that define who a person is, encompassing
aspects such as cultural background, gender, interests, and experiences.
- Society's influence on self-identity: Individuals often shape their identities in response to
societal expectations, cultural influences, and peer groups.
2. Role of Self-Esteem:
- Self-esteem is a crucial component of the development of self. It refers to an individual's
overall evaluation of their self-worth.
- Positive self-esteem is linked to healthier mental and emotional well-being, enabling
individuals to cope with challenges and embrace their uniqueness.
- Society's impact on self-esteem: Media portrayal, societal standards, and comparisons with
others can either boost or hinder self-esteem.
3. Emotional Intelligence:
- Emotional intelligence involves recognizing, understanding, and managing one's own emotions
as well as understanding and influencing the emotions of others.
- Developing emotional intelligence facilitates effective communication, empathy, and conflict
resolution in various social settings.
- Society's role in emotional intelligence: Cultural norms and societal attitudes towards emotions
can shape an individual's emotional intelligence.
