Self and Identity: The Basics

Self and Identity: The Basics is a jargon-free and accessible introduction that draws on key theories and ideas in Social Psychology to explore the ways that other people affect our thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. Highlighting selfhood as a function of identity, the book shows that it is our relationships with others in our social world that largely determine who we are.

"Who am I?" It’s a question that most all humans have grappled with at some point or another. This book seeks to answer this question through relatable examples that show how psychological theory can be applied to our own lives. It considers the philosophical and psychological context in which ideas about selfhood have developed and reviews the ways that the people around us, and the groups that we belong to, affect who we are. Finally, these ideas are considered in the context of real-world phenomena and behaviours; for instance, how we use language, conflict between groups, and social influence.

With a glossary of key terms, suggestions for further reading, and chapter summaries, this book is an ideal introduction for students of social psychology and related fields. It will be of interest to anyone who wants to gain social psychological insight into who they are and how others got them there.

Megan E. Birney is an Associate Professor in Psychology in Education at the University of Birmingham, UK. Her research focuses on identity processes, engaged followership, toxic behaviours, communication, stigma, and conspiracy theories.