Self-Image: Definition, Issues, & Tips

By Kelsey Schultz, Ph.D. Candidate
Reviewed by Tchiki Davis, M.A., Ph.D.

A positive self-image is an important part of our overall well-being. Keep reading to learn more about what a self-image is and how we can improve it.

*This page may include affiliate links; that means we earn from qualifying purchases of products.

The way we view ourselves is an important part of how we move through the world. It determines how we treat ourselves, how we navigate relationships with others, and the effort we are willing to expend to meet our goals. Our self-image, however, is not always accurate and can be negatively influenced by a number of factors. Learning about what our self-image is and how it is developed can be an important step in improving our relationship with ourselves and the world around us.

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What Is Self-Image? (A Definition)

Self-image can be defined as a person's perception of themselves, including their physical appearance, personality, and characteristics (Morin & Racy, 2021). It is the way in which an individual views and evaluates themselves, and it can be influenced by various factors such as culture, family, friends, and personal experiences (Taylor & Brown, 1988).

For a quick overview of what a self-image is, check out this video:

Video: What is Self-Image | Explained in 2 min

Why Self-Image Is Important

Self-image is important because it can have a significant impact on an individual's self-esteem and self-worth (Baumeister et al., 1989). It can also influence an individual's behavior and decision-making, as well as their relationships with others.

According to a review published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology (Baumeister et al., 1989), people with a positive self-image tend to have higher levels of self-confidence and self-esteem, and they are generally more successful in life. On the other hand, those with a negative self-image may struggle with low self-esteem and may be more prone to anxiety and depression (Beck, 1967).

In addition, research has shown that self-image can play a role in an individual's overall well-being and happiness (Taylor & Brown, 1988). Therefore, it is important for individuals to strive for a healthy and balanced self-image in order to improve their mental health and quality of life.

Self-Image Issues

Self-image issues refer to negative or distorted perceptions that an individual has of themselves, including their physical appearance, personality, and characteristics. These issues can manifest in a variety of ways, such as low self-esteem, lack of self-confidence, and negative body image (Baumeister et al., 1989).

Causes of poor self-image
Self-image issues can be caused by a variety of factors, such as past traumas or abuse, negative societal messages and cultural expectations, and negative influences from family and friends. These issues can also be perpetuated by unhealthy coping mechanisms, such as avoidance or self-destructive behaviors (Beck, 1967).

Self-image issues can have serious consequences for an individual's mental health and overall well-being (Taylor & Brown, 1988). It is important for individuals who are struggling with self-image issues to seek support and seek professional help if necessary in order to address and resolve these issues.

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Self-Image Disorder

Self-image disorder, also known as body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), is a mental health disorder characterized by a preoccupation with perceived defects or flaws in one's appearance that are not observable to others, or that are significantly exaggerated (American Psychiatric Association, 2013).

Individuals with body dysmorphic disorder may spend excessive amounts of time examining their appearance in mirrors or other reflective surfaces, or may engage in repetitive behaviors such as skin picking or hair pulling. These behaviors can cause significant distress and can interfere with an individual's daily functioning and quality of life (Phillips, 2005).

Body dysmorphic disorder is thought to be caused by a combination of genetic, environmental, and cognitive factors (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). It is important for individuals with body dysmorphic disorder to seek treatment, which may include cognitive-behavioral therapy, medication, or a combination of both (Phillips, 2005).

Negative Self-Image

Negative self-image refers to a person's negative perception of themselves, including their physical appearance, personality, and characteristics. It is the way in which an individual views and evaluates themselves in a negative light, and it can be influenced by various factors such as past traumas or abuse, negative societal messages and cultural expectations, and negative influences from family and friends.

According to a study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology (Baumeister et al., 1989), negative self-image can be associated with negative outcomes such as anxiety, depression, and unhealthy coping mechanisms (Beck, 1967). It is important for individuals with a negative self-image to seek support and seek professional help if necessary in order to address and resolve these issues (Taylor & Brown, 1988).

Positive Self-Image

Positive self-image refers to a person's positive perception of themselves, including their physical appearance, personality, and characteristics. It is the way in which an individual views and evaluates themselves in a positive light, and it can be influenced by various factors such as supportive relationships, positive experiences, and personal achievements (Taylor & Brown, 1988).

According to a study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology (Baumeister et al., 1989), positive self-image is associated with higher levels of self-confidence and self-esteem, and it can lead to better outcomes in life such as success in school, work, and relationships. It is important for individuals to strive for a positive self-image in order to improve their mental health and overall well-being (Taylor & Brown, 1988).

To learn more about how to develop a positive self-image, check out this video:

Video: Improve Your Self-Image

Self-Image Dimensions

Self-image dimensions refer to the various aspects or characteristics that make up an individual's perception of themselves. According to a study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology (Baumeister et al., 1989), some common dimensions of self-image include physical appearance, intelligence, personality, and social identity.

Physical appearance is often a significant aspect of self-image, particularly for those who place a high value on attractiveness (Saiphoo & Vahedi, 2019). Intelligence is another important dimension of self-image, as individuals often view themselves in terms of their intellectual abilities and accomplishments (Peterson & Seligman, 2004). Personality is also a key dimension of self-image, as individuals tend to view themselves in terms of their personal characteristics and traits (Baumeister et al., 1989). Social identity is another dimension of self-image that refers to an individual's sense of belonging to a particular group or community (Tajfel & Turner, 2004).

It is important for individuals to strive for a balanced and healthy self-image across all dimensions in order to improve their mental health and overall well-being (Taylor & Brown, 1988).

Self-Image Questions

Here are some questions you can ask yourself to see if you have a negative self-image:

Do you frequently criticize or put yourself down?
Do you have negative thoughts about your appearance or abilities?
Do you compare yourself unfavorably to others?
Do you feel unworthy or undeserving of good things in your life?
Do you have trouble accepting compliments or praise from others?
Do you often feel self-conscious or embarrassed in social situations?
Do you avoid trying new things because you are afraid of failure?
Do you have difficulty making decisions or standing up for yourself?

If you answered "yes" to several of these questions, it may be a sign that you have a negative self-image. It is important to work on developing a more positive self-image in order to improve your mental health and overall well-being. If you are struggling with negative self-image, it may be helpful to seek support from a mental health professional or trusted friend or family member.

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Self-Image and Social Media

Social media has the potential to affect self-image in both positive and negative ways. On the positive side, social media can provide a platform for individuals to connect with others, share their interests and accomplishments, and receive support and validation from their peers (Vogel et al., 2014).

However, research has also shown that social media can have negative effects on self-image, particularly for those who use it excessively or who compare themselves unfavorably to others (Saiphoo & Vahedi, 2019). Additionally, research has shown that social media can contribute to the development of body dissatisfaction and negative body image, particularly for women (Vogel et al., 2014). This is because social media often presents an idealized and unrealistic view of appearance, and individuals may feel pressure to conform to these standards (Saiphoo & Vahedi, 2019).

Social media use can also have a positive influence on self-esteem. For example, a study published in the journal Computers in human behavior demonstrated that positive feedback from friends can improve some aspects of self-esteem (Valkenburg et al., 2017).

Some researchers suggest that the influence of social media on self-image and self-esteem is specific to individuals and depends on how vulnerable someone might be to societal pressures to fit into some idealized mold (Cingel et al., 2022).

Together, research shows that social media can affect self-image in both positive and negative ways, and it is important for individuals to use it mindfully and in moderation in order to protect their mental health and well-being.

Tips on Improving Self-Image

Here are some tips on improving self-image, based on academic research:

Practice self-compassion: According to a study published in the journal Self and Identity (Neff, 2003), self-compassion, or the ability to be kind and understanding towards oneself, is associated with higher levels of self-esteem and well-being. Try to speak to yourself with kindness and understanding, and remind yourself that everyone makes mistakes and has flaws.
Focus on your strengths: Instead of dwelling on your weaknesses or perceived flaws, try to find your strengths and accomplishments. Adopting a perspective in which your strengths and virtues are front and center can improve your self-image and overall well-being (Peterson & Seligman, 2004).
Surround yourself with supportive people: Research has shown that the people we surround ourselves with can have a significant impact on our self-image (Arslan, 2009). Try to surround yourself with people who are supportive and positive, and limit your time with those who are critical or negative.
Engage in activities that boost self-esteem: Participating in activities that you enjoy and are good at can boost your self-esteem and improve your self-image (McKay & Fanning, 2016). Try new things and pursue your interests, and don't be afraid to take on challenges.
Seek professional help: If you are struggling with negative self-image or low self-esteem, it may be helpful to seek the assistance of a mental health professional. A therapist can help you work on improving your self-image and coping with any underlying issues that may be contributing to negative self-perception.

Self-Image Journal Prompts

Here are some journal prompts that you can use to improve your self-image:

Write about a time when you were proud of yourself or achieved something you were proud of. What did you do, and how did it make you feel?
Write about your strengths and accomplishments. What are you good at, and what are you proud of?
Write about a time when you received a compliment or praise from someone else. How did it make you feel, and why do you think they gave it to you?
Write about a time when you were kind and compassionate towards yourself. What did you do, and how did it make you feel?
Write about a goal that you have for yourself. Why is this goal important to you, and what steps can you take to achieve it?
Write about a time when you struggled with negative self-image. What were you feeling, and what helped you overcome those feelings?
Write about a role model or someone you admire. What positive qualities or characteristics do you admire about them, and how can you incorporate some of those qualities into your own life?
Write about a time when you were able to overcome a challenge or adversity. What did you do, and how did it make you feel?

Quotes on Self-Image

Here are some quotes that may help you improve your self-image:

"The way you treat yourself sets the standard for others." - Sonya Friedman
"To be beautiful means to be yourself. You don't need to be accepted by others. You need to accept yourself." - Thich Nhat Hanh
"Love yourself first and everything else falls into line. You really have to love yourself to get anything done in this world." - Lucille Ball
"Remember, you have been criticizing yourself for years and it hasn't worked. Try approving of yourself and see what happens." - Louise L. Hay
"The most powerful relationship you will ever have is the relationship with yourself." - Steve Maraboli
"You are enough just as you are. You don't need to prove yourself to anyone." - Unknown
"Believe in yourself and all that you are. Know that there is something inside you that is greater than any obstacle." - Christian D. Larson
"You are worthy of love and respect, no matter what. Remember to treat yourself with kindness and compassion." - Unknown

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Articles Related to Self-Image

Want to learn more? Check out these articles:

Books Related to Self-Image

If you’d like to keep learning more, here are a few books that you might be interested in.

Final Thoughts on Self-Image

Self-image is an individual's perception of themselves, including their physical appearance, personality, and characteristics. It is influenced by various factors such as culture, family, friends, and personal experiences, and it can have a significant impact on an individual's self-esteem and self-worth.

Negative self-image can lead to low self-esteem and negative outcomes such as anxiety, depression, and unhealthy coping mechanisms, while positive self-image is associated with higher levels of self-confidence and self-esteem, and better outcomes in life. Improving self-image may involve practicing self-compassion, focusing on strengths and accomplishments, surrounding oneself with supportive people, engaging in activities that boost self-esteem, and seeking professional help if necessary.

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References

American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). Washington, DC: Author.
Arslan, C. (2009). Anger, self-esteem, and perceived social support in adolescence. Social Behavior and Personality: an international journal, 37(4), 555-564.
Baumeister, R. F., Tice, D. M., & Hutton, D. G. (1989). Self-presentational motivations and personality differences in self-esteem. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 56(3), 541-548.
Beck, A. T. (1967). Depression: Causes and treatment. Philadelphia: University of Pennsylvania Press.
Cingel, D. P., Carter, M. C., & Krause, H. V. (2022). Social media and self-esteem. Current Opinion in Psychology, 101304.
McKay, M., & Fanning, P. (2016). Self-esteem: A proven program of cognitive techniques for assessing, improving, and maintaining your self-esteem. New Harbinger Publications.
Morin, A., & Racy, F. (2021). Dynamic self-processes. In The Handbook of Personality Dynamics and Processes (pp. 365-386). Academic Press.
Neff, K. D. (2003). The development and validation of a scale to measure self-compassion. Self and Identity, 2(3), 223-250.
Peterson, C., & Seligman, M. E. (2004). Character strengths and virtues: A handbook and classification (Vol. 1). Oxford University Press.
Saiphoo, A. N., & Vahedi, Z. (2019). A meta-analytic review of the relationship between social media use and body image disturbance. Computers in human behavior, 101, 259-275.
Tajfel, H., & Turner, J. C. (2004). The social identity theory of intergroup behavior. In Political psychology (pp. 276-293). Psychology Press.
Taylor, S. E., & Brown, J. D. (1988). Illusion and well-being: A social psychological perspective on mental health. Psychological Bulletin, 103(2), 193-210.
Valkenburg, P. M., Koutamanis, M., & Vossen, H. G. (2017). The concurrent and longitudinal relationships between adolescents' use of social network sites and their social self-esteem. Computers in human behavior, 76, 35-41.
Vogel, E. A., Rose, J. P., Roberts, L. R., & Eckles, K. (2014). Social media, social comparison, and self-esteem.

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