What does self-concept encompass?

Self-concept encompasses an individual's knowledge about themselves, which includes their beliefs, feelings, and perceptions regarding their identity, abilities, and worth. It is a comprehensive understanding of who one is, shaped by experiences, feedback from others, and personal reflections.

This understanding of self is crucial because it influences various aspects of behavior and emotional well-being. While opinions about academics and feelings towards others can be part of someone's self-concept, they are more specific and do not capture the entirety of an individual's self-knowledge. Similarly, experiences in social settings can impact self-concept but do not fully define it; they are external influences rather than the core knowledge that makes up self-concept. Thus, the most accurate representation of self-concept is the broader knowledge an individual has about themselves.