Self-concept, self-image, and self-esteem in interpersonal communication

Although I would certainly want to address all the principles of communication to improve interpersonal relationships, one principle of communication that I can work on immediately is practicing. “Interpersonal communication is a lifelong study that requires ongoing practice for everyone,” (p. ). No one is perfect, and each person has unique styles of communication that either corresponds with their personality traits or their upbringing. Also, learning about communication helps us respond or adapt better to different types of situational variables.

Every day, there is something I can do to improve communication. One is to become more self-aware, and more aware of my emotional states. Most communications problems arise when emotions get in the way or rational thought and cause misunderstandings. When I learn to listen to my own emotions, I can become a better listener in social situations. Learning how to become more self-aware and emotionally intelligent involves mindfulness, such as practicing daily meditation. The second thing I can start learning now is more abstract and theoretical. For example, I can read books about improving communication, articles about cross-cultural communication, or books about new communication strategies.

These two specific techniques: self-awareness and theoretical learning, comprise a daily program of self-improvement. The only way to improve my communication habits is through practice, and conscientious application of new techniques. Gradually, I will notice that my relationships start to improve, I am less reactive under stress, and I feel calmer in social situations.

Self-concept refers to how or what I think about myself. It is shaped my numerous interrelated factors like how others speak to me and what they say, and especially from how I compare myself to others. Self-image is defined as being “more permanent than self-concept,” (p. 5). When I draw broad generalizations about my personality or capacities, then I have created a self-concept that in some cases can be difficult to change. Self-esteem refers to my sense of self-worth, and what I believe myself to be capable of doing. Thus, self-esteem is also related to self-efficacy. All three of these (self-concept, self-image, and self-esteem) are interrelated. Each of these concepts also impacts how I communicate with others, because how I relate to others is directly related to how I perceive myself and how I comport myself in social situations.

One example of how my self-concept has affected interpersonal communication is that I have been called an extravert by other people and so have responded to that by being outgoing in social situations. I have a concept of myself as a cheerful, friendly person because others have responded to me in that way. Also, compared with some of the introverts I know, I have solidified that self-concept into a self-image. I now project myself outwardly as a cheerful, outgoing, and friendly human being who relates well to others. When I am in social situations, I interact with others in ways that reinforces that self-concept.