Difference Between Self-Concept, Self-Image and Self-Esteem

The difference between self-concept, self-image and self-esteem is that the first is the opinion one has of oneself, the self-image is how one sees oneself and self-esteem is one's own subjective assessment. They are concepts widely used in the field of psychology .


Self-concept, self-image and self-esteem are very popular concepts in the field of psychology. Something important to highlight among those who are interested in these concepts is to highlight their differences.


What is the difference between self-concept, self-image and self-esteem?


These three concepts are different, although they are closely related to each other when it comes to understanding the vision that one has of oneself and the behavior that one puts into practice.


Self - concept is the opinion one has of oneself. Here another series of indispensable factors intervene that make that opinion be formed. For example, the interaction with society in general can help to forge that own opinion.


Self-image is the mental representation or image one has of oneself. It would be a kind of mental photograph of how one sees oneself and the perception one has regarding oneself. Care must be taken when creating an image that does not correspond to reality.


Self - esteem is related to both concepts, but it is different. It is about the thoughts and feelings that one has about oneself. It is the way in which one is evaluated and even judged. Self-image and self-concept have a great influence on self-esteem. It is much more focused on the emotional part of the individual.


Example of self-concept, self-image and self-esteem


Self-esteem can be high or low, it will depend a lot on how a person is perceived. For example, a person with a good self-esteem will dare to show her writing and publish a book. She will feel sure of herself to start that project.


Self-image is the photograph one has of oneself. The internal dialogues also influence her, in addition to the external ones. For example, constantly calling oneself stupid for any mistake denotes that one's self-image is not very favorable or calling oneself ugly in the face of one's image without drawing any virtue of one's own.


As for the self-concept, it is the opinion and knowledge that one has about oneself. For example, I usually get angry when I wake up in the morning or I am an animal lover.