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How does a child's self-concept change as they age?

Deedee Malzard

As children grow, their self-concept changes in a variety of ways. When they are very young, their self-concept is primarily based on how they perceive others view them. However, as they get older and gain more life experience, their self-concept becomes more complex and multifaceted.

As children begin to develop a sense of self, they often compare themselves to their peers. They may start to notice differences in physical appearance, abilities, and interests, and these comparisons can impact their self-esteem. For example, a child who struggles academically and sees their peers performing well may begin to doubt their intelligence and feel inferior.

As children move into adolescence, their self-concept becomes more internalized and less dependent on others' perceptions. This can lead to more independent thinking and behavior, but it can also create conflicts with peers and adults who hold different beliefs and values.

Adolescence is also a time when identity development becomes more important. As adolescents start to explore who they are, they may experiment with different identities and try on different roles. This can be a challenging time as teens navigate cultural expectations, peer pressure, and personal values.

One important factor that influences self-concept as children age is the feedback they receive from others. Positive feedback can help build confidence, while negative feedback can damage self-esteem. As children grow, they may seek out feedback that confirms their positive self-concept and avoid feedback that challenges it.

Another factor that can impact self-concept is the achievement of developmental milestones. Meeting these milestones can build confidence and reinforce a positive self-concept, while struggling to meet them can damage self-esteem and create feelings of inadequacy.

Overall, a child's self-concept changes as they age in response to a variety of internal and external factors. While some changes may be positive, others can be challenging, and it is important for parents, teachers, and other adults in their lives to support their developing sense of self and provide them with positive feedback and guidance.