Refers to the authentic self. Includes the genuine desires and emotions, as well as one's potential for ongoing growth and advancement.

Real Self

Refers to the person that one wishes to be or aspires to become.

Ideal Self

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New Mexico Highlands University

* Real self
* Ideal self 
* Congruence
* Incongruence

Key Concepts Related to the Self-Concept

Spielman, R. M., Jenkins, W. J., & Lovett, M. D. (2020, April 22). Psychology (2nd ed.). OpenStax. https://openstax.org/books/psychology-2e/pages/1-introduction

OpenStax Psychology (2nd ed.) Textbook

Refers to when our perceptions of our actual self closely align with our ideal self, reflecting an accurate self-concept. This alignment fosters a strong sense of self-worth and supports a positive and productive life.

Congruence

Refers to when there is a significant gap between our ideal self and our actual self, which may result in maladjustment.

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