THREATS TO SELF-CONCEPT: A RESEARCH DESIGN
Within the context of social identity theory, self-concept reflects "a collection of self-images which vary in terms of the length of their establishment, complexity and richness of content" (Abrams & Hogg, 1994, p. 3). As self-concept is closely associated with the theory of social identity, a question arises as to the potential for self-awareness to affect social identity (Abrams, 1994). Self-awareness theory is concerned with the ways through which individuals control and direct their behavior. Within a sociological context, the relationship between self-awareness and social identity is perceived as a realization by an individual of variations between their own self-image and the ideal self-image associated with a salient reference group, and a response by an individual to such a realization (Abrams, 1994). Within the context of cognitive psychology, the self-awareness/social identity relationship is described in "terms of control theory, in which negative feedback loops operate to enable individuals to match their behaviour to particular standards" (Abrams, 1994, pp. 90-91). In essence, these two perceptions are virtually identical, with differences between the two couched within the semantics of opposing academic disciplines.
An individual's self-concept may be affected by socioeconomic status, depending upon the psychological strength and maturity of the individual. Ethnicity most certainly affects self-concept through philosophies and values. Self-concept frequently is shaped by a person's belief system (Morris & Peng, 1995).
Markus and Wurf (1987, p. 299) held that self-concept "does not just reflect on-going behavior but instead mediates and regulates this behavior. à It interprets and organizes self-relevant actions and experiences; it has motivational consequences; à and it adjusts in response to challenges from the social environment."
An important intraperso...