Self-discrepancy theory: the ideal self, the real self and the responsible self

Why do people react differently to the same setbacks? When faced with events, such as the breakup of a marriage or the loss of a job, some people suffer from depression while others develop anxiety. This is the event that the self-discrepancy theory formulated by E. Tory Higgins attempts to explain.

The theory provides a platform for understanding how different types of discrepancies between self-representations relate to different types of emotional vulnerabilities.

Some people conceive of their goals or standards as hopes or aspirations (ideal guides). Other individuals view their goals as duties or obligations (self-demands). According to self-discrepancy theory, this difference between ideals and duties holds the answer to the mystery of why people have different emotional reactions to the same negative events.

This theory proposes that People’s emotional vulnerabilities depend on the type of self-guidance that motivates their lives.: discouragement and depression when ideals dominate. Agitation and anxiety, when demands dominate.

Self-discrepancy theory maintains that there are other probable selves (how we can become), which are inevitably compared to the current self. So, A comparison can be made between the real and current Self with the future Self..

Higgins distinguishes three types of ego: the ideal ego, the ideal ego and the responsible ego. When there are discrepancies, people suffer emotionally. If the real self is discrepant from an ideal, people feel sad, disappointed, discouraged and depressed. While if the real self disagrees with a duty, people feel worried, nervous and tense; In short, anxious.

Self-concept and self-esteem

The knowledge that individuals have about themselves develops throughout life. The self-concept is developed from schemes of personal intereststastes, feelings, values, roles, membership in classes or groups or classes, decisions and beliefs.

Knowing ourselves, our identity, is fundamental for our social well-being. The construction of a positive or negative self-concept will influence the development of self-esteem. We reflect our level of self-esteem in many expressions, including those we direct to others.

On the other hand, in addition From the knowledge we have of ourselves, we also imagine how we would like to be. How we would like to be in the future. And that is where the three types of Self come into play.

The different selves

The theory suggests that individuals are motivated to achieve a goal in which self-concept matches self-guidelines. To do this, E. Tory Higgins differentiates three types of Ego.

The real Self. How we think we really are. It is a personal perception, a self-perception and not what we really are. A representation of characteristics that we think we possess, a vision of reality that may or may not be true.The ideal self. This is the Self we would like to be. Into this Self slips the Self that we want to be for ourselves, but also the Self that we want to be for others. Thus, it compiles the set of aspirations and expectations that we have about ourselves.The responsible self. This dimension responds to the Self that should be. The attributes that someone (oneself or others) believe one should possess. That is, a representation of someone’s sense of duty, obligations, or responsibilities.

The ideal Self and the responsible Self set objectives and goals for us.. The first of them refers to desires and the second responds more to a moral or ethical level.

Higgins self-discrepancy theory

The discrepancies between the different Selves are, in reality, identity crises. Two types of negative situations are created: the absence of positive outcomes, which are associated with emotions related to dejection, and the presence of negative outcomes, which are associated with emotions related to agitation.

The discrepancy between the real Self and the ideal Self is characterized by emotions related to despair, such as disappointment and dissatisfaction. and are associated with depression and low self-esteem. They are characterized by the anticipation of less than positive results. It can also occur about that part of the ideal self in which the expectations that others have about us and that we make our own are collected. In this case, the emotion of shame and loss of prestige is added.

When the discrepancy occurs between the real Self and the responsible Self, that is, with what we consider our duty and our obligations, the emotions that occur are associated with agitation. Expectations of punishment are generated, the person becomes vulnerable to fear, You will feel threatened and self-criticism will occur.

Applications in psychology

The theory of self-discrepancy has several applications in addressing psychological problems. and from other fields. Understanding what emotions are being aroused and identifying their origin or the factors that maintain them is important to restore psychological health, confidence and orientation towards the future.

Thus, this theory is widely used in intervention on problems such as anxiety, depression or eating disorders. Also in areas of education, where it is applied against procrastination, helping students choose their professional careers or developing confidence in athletes.

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