Self-Image

Self-image is a mental picture and overall sense of who we are, taking in our psychological self (personality, values), intellectual self (how we assess our intelligence, skills, achievements), our physical self (how we perceive our physical appearance), social self (how we perceive ourselves as parents, friends, colleagues, and our value to society), and ideal-self (our aspirations, motivations to change and improve). A healthy self-image involves self-acceptance and recognition of our potential — and boosts self-esteem. A negative self-image contributes to low confidence, distorted self-perceptions, low self-esteem, over-focus on flaws, and feelings of shame or inadequacy — contributing to mental health issues. Societal and cultural expectations and norms also influence how we view ourselves. Also see Self-Worth