The spelling of the compound word "self consciousness" can be a bit tricky due to its multiple syllables and various vowel sounds. In IPA phonetic transcription, "self" would be transcribed as /sɛlf/, with the "e" sound being closer to "eh" than "ee." "Conscious" would be transcribed as /ˈkɑnʃəs/, with the "a" sound being pronounced as "ah" and the stress falling on the second syllable. When pronounced together, the word is often pronounced as /sɛlf ˈkɑnʃəs/.
Self-consciousness refers to the awareness and perception that an individual has of their own existence, thoughts, feelings, and actions. It is the state of being conscious of oneself as a separate entity from others and being cognizant of one's own mental and emotional processes. This heightened level of self-awareness involves a deep introspection and reflection on one's own identity, beliefs, values, and behaviors.
Self-consciousness can manifest in various ways. It can result in a sense of self-reflection, where individuals actively analyze and evaluate their own thoughts, emotions, and actions. This internal monitoring allows individuals to have a greater understanding of the impact their behavior may have on others and can lead to a sense of social awareness and empathy.
However, self-consciousness can also lead to feelings of insecurity, vulnerability, or self-doubt. This is particularly the case when individuals become excessively concerned about how they are perceived by others, leading to self-conscious behavior such as overthinking, self-criticism, or avoiding certain social situations. In these instances, self-consciousness can negatively impact an individual's self-esteem and hinder their ability to fully express themselves or engage in activities without fear of judgment.
Overall, self-consciousness can be seen as a critical aspect of human cognition and self-development. It is an ongoing process that shapes our sense of self, influences our social interactions, and allows us to navigate the complexities of our own minds and the world around us.
The word "self consciousness" has its origins in Middle English.
The term "self" comes from the Old English word "sylf", which means "own" or "same". This Old English word further derives from the Proto-Germanic word "selbaz".
The word "consciousness" comes from the Middle English word "conscious", which means "aware" or "knowing". It originated from the Latin word "conscius", which combines "con" meaning "with" or "together" and "scire" meaning "to know".
Therefore, combining "self" and "consciousness", the etymology suggests that "self consciousness" refers to being aware or knowing oneself.