ABSTRACT
Route map of the chapter
This chapter is divided into several sections. The first begins with a section on what we understand by the concept of self, its function and how it develops. We will then focus on how we gather and organise information about ourselves from both our own behaviour and how we are treated by others around us. We will also describe some of the strategies that we deploy as defence mechanisms when the concept of our identity comes under threat. We will then consider how the social groups to which we belong and how the role of culture also play a vital part in the understanding of who we are. Lastly, we will discuss what happens when we lose our way and become confused about who we are and what we represent.
