Question

Given below are two statements, one is labelled as Assertion (A) and other one labelled as Reason (R).
Assertion (A): Self-concept is an image of a person. It is the way one perceives oneself; one's abilities and limitations.
Reason (R): Self-concept is the understanding of the self, in comparison to the past self, without social comparison.
In light of the above statements, choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• A. Both (A) and (R) are correct
• B. (R) is correct and (A) is wrong
• C. (A) is correct and (R) is wrong
• D. Both (A) and (R) are wrong

Hint:

Self-concept and self-esteem are inherently social constructs. They are formed through continuous social comparisons with others, making any statement suggesting they are built "without social comparison" incorrect.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Self-concept refers to the dynamic cognitive representation an individual holds of themselves, incorporating physical, social, and psychological traits.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
- Assertion (A): Self-concept is a subjective mental image of oneself. It encompasses self-perceptions of one's identities, talents, personality, limits, and roles in life. This makes Assertion (A) correct.
- Reason (R): Self-concept is not constructed in isolation. According to major psychological frameworks (including Leon Festinger's Social Comparison Theory and Charles Cooley's Looking-Glass Self), self-concept is deeply influenced by social comparisons with peers and feedback from the social environment, especially during childhood and adolescence. Therefore, stating that self-concept is formed "without social comparison" is factually incorrect.

Step 3: Final Answer
Since Assertion (A) is correct and Reason (R) is wrong, the correct choice is option (C).