University:
California State University, Northridge
Course:
PSY 105 | General Psychology
Academic year:

2024
Views:

191

Pages:

2
Author:

Jithin J. I.

A CULTURAL PERSPECTIVE ON THE SELF IN SPORT AND EXERCISE Introduction  The development of the self involves navigating various social contexts and asking questions like "Who am I?" and "How do I relate to others?"  The cultural perspective on the self explores differences in self-construal between individualist and collectivist societies. Two Self-Construals  Independent Self-Construal: In individualist societies, the self is defined primarily by characteristics that distinguish the individual from others, such as traits and abilities. Attachment to in-groups is relatively loose, and personal autonomy is emphasized.  Interdependent Self-Construal: In collectivist cultures, the self is inseparably linked to others. Relationships, social roles, and group memberships are central to the self. Group-based social identities are important, and the self is defined by relationships with others in specific social contexts. Implications for Thinking, Feeling, and Action  Self-Reflection: The nature of self-construal influences self-reflection. Independent self-construal emphasizes autonomy, while interdependent selfconstrual emphasizes relational harmony.  Executive Function: Self-construal influences the sense of agency and control in life. Independent self-construal values personal goals and self-enhancement, while interdependent self-construal values responsiveness to others' needs.  Social Relationships: The degree of independence/interdependence in selfconstrual shapes interpersonal relationships, with implications for self-esteem, self-efficacy, and self-serving biases. Cultural Differences in Self-Esteem and Self-Serving Biases  Studies show that East Asians tend to report lower levels of self-esteem than Westerners. This may reflect cultural differences in self-construal and what is valued in self-evaluations.  Self-serving biases, where individuals attribute success internally and failure externally, are often stronger among individualists than collectivists.  Athletes from individualist cultures may be more likely to attribute personal success to internal factors and externalize failure, whereas athletes from collectivist cultures may attribute success and failure more to team factors. Conclusion:  The cultural perspective on the self reveals differences in self-construal between individualist and collectivist societies.  These differences influence self-reflection, executive function, and social relationships.  Cultural variations in self-esteem and self-serving biases may also affect how athletes from different cultures explain their performance.  Understanding cultural differences in self-construal is essential for sport and exercise researchers and practitioners working with athletes from diverse backgrounds.