Self-Consciousness Considered Within a Theory of Self

Self-consciousness is a pervasive phenomenon present in normal life as well as in the clinical situation. Its manifestations may run the gamut from slight initial discomfort in social situations to such tenseness that it seriously interferes with functioning. In a social situation, when this feeling is not too excessive, it may be kept in check by various ad hoc maneuvers such as taking a drink. One may also force oneself by sheer willpower to face the situation and seek to drain off the accompanying anxiety by engaging in some other activity such as forced banter, lighting a cigarette, etc. Some telltale evidence, however, may still remain in speech and movement. When self-consciousness is excessive, avoidance (e.g., crossing the street to keep from having to greet an acquaintance or absenting oneself from class for fear of being called upon to recite), withdrawal (and its possible variants such as forced casualness, shallow interest, hostility to others, etc.) and constriction of social intercourse may result.

Self-consciousness, moreover, can be experienced not only in relation to others, but also to oneself, as in depression. Since self-consciousness involves the self, it should not be surprising that its manifestations cross diagnostic categories, and are present together with other symptoms. Some of these syndromes will now be briefly considered focusing on the way self-consciousness manifests itself. An attempt will then be made to place these various manifestations within a theory of self.

In the case of depression, self-consciousness is a preoccupation with self in relation to depressive content. It is pervasive and present even when the patient is alone with himself. “If only I weren't aware of everything I do …” “If I could only forget myself for a while …” These are some of the ways in which these patients speak of their burden. When with others they often continue with their preoccupation and may even share with them