Knowledge structure that consists of cognitive generalizations we have about ourselves. 

Alma College

Contains information pertaining to the conceptions of the self:
- Self-Concept
- Self-Esteem
- Relational Selves
- Self-Efficacy
- Self-Guides
- Self-Schema

Various Conceptions of Self

A schema is a mental construct that serves as a cognitive framework for organizing knowledge. It consists of a cluster of interconnected concepts based on prior experiences, as originally proposed by Bartlett in 1932. Schemata is the plural form of schema.

Schema

Setterlund, M., Feshbach, S., Weiner B., & Bohart A. (2019). Personality. United States of America: Academic Media Solutions.

Personality 5th Edition

One's definition of who they are--includes feelings, attitudes, behaviors, desires, and judgements that one considers to be characteristic of themselves. An awareness that we are physically distinct from others.

Self-Concept

A generalized evaluation of one's self. Typically either a positive or negative evaluation of traits, abilities, etc. 

Self-Esteem

The relational self pertains to how the self is related to others; specifically, how mental representations may be tied to other people and how we change how we define ourselves when in the context of other people. 

Relational Self

Proposed by Albert Bandura, self-efficacy is an individual's belief in their own ability to successfully complete a specific task. This belief, which can be influenced by past successes in similar tasks, is considered a key factor in determining a person's motivation, emotional state, and subsequent behavior.

Self-Efficacy

Result from shortcomings among our current, ideal, and ought self. These shortcomings help motivate us and guide us towards becoming our ideal and ought selves.

Self-Guides

Self-Schema

A person's overall subjective evaluation on their worth, and how they feel about the evaluation. Those with high self esteem tend to feel hopeful, and those with low self esteem tend to feel hopeless and withdraw. Typically either a positive or negative evaluation of traits, abilities, etc.

- Scene schema
- Script
- Permission schema
- Role schema
- Event schema (cognitive script)

Types of Schema

- Attention
- Memory
- Construal
- Behavior

Influence of Schemas

Schemata are organized as mental frameworks of interconnected concepts based on prior knowledge. They are dynamically constructed and updated through two primary processes: assimilation, which involves integrating new information into existing schemata, and accommodation, which requires modifying existing schemata to fit new, contradictory information.

Organization and Construction of Schemata

When a schema is activated, it prompts the brain to make immediate assumptions about the person or object being observed. This cognitive shortcut allows for rapid interpretation of situations based on existing knowledge frameworks.

Schema Activation and Assumption Formation

Schemata function as a method for organizing information, which enhances the brain's cognitive efficiency. By providing a framework for analyzing and categorizing new information, they allow for faster processing and understanding of the world.

Function of Schemata in Cognitive Efficiency

Schemata serve a cognitive function by helping individuals fill in missing details from the information they perceive. This allows the brain to construct a more complete and coherent understanding of the world, even when presented with incomplete sensory input.

Function of Schemata in Filling Informational Gaps

While schemata improve cognitive efficiency, they have notable disadvantages. They can lead to inaccurate judgments and reinforce stereotypes because the assumptions they generate may not align with reality. For instance, an individual might not possess the traits commonly associated with their role schema, such as a firefighter who is not brave but works the job for practical reasons.

Disadvantages of Schemata

Certain schemata encapsulate established routines of thought and action, enabling individuals to navigate familiar situations efficiently and automatically, without the need for conscious deliberation on each step.

Role of Schemata in Automating Routines

Schemata are actively employed in everyday life, influencing behavior and understanding in both social interactions and common daily routines.

Application of Schemata in Social and Daily Contexts

A person who has only ever seen large, aggressive dogs develops a mental framework where all dogs are considered dangerous. When they later encounter a small, friendly poodle, they feel fear and avoid it. Which statement best analyzes the cognitive process occurring in this situation?

An event schema, also known as a habit, is a cognitive framework that dictates behavior in specific situations, such as automatically facing the door when entering an elevator. Event schemata are powerful forces in our understanding of the world, making many habits difficult to break once they have been acquired.

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