Developing The Self

The Development of the Social Self

Drawing upon the perspective of social identity theory, The Development of the Social Self is concerned with the acquisition and development of children's social identities. In contrast to previous work on self-development, which has focused primarily on the development of the personal self, this volume makes a case for the importance of the study of the social self - that is, the self as defined through group memberships, such as gender, ethnicity, and nationality. A broad range of identity-related issues are addressed, such as ingroup identification, conceptions of social identities, prejudice, and the central role of social context. Based on contributions from leading researchers in Europe, Australia and the US, the book summarises the major research programmes conducted to date. Furthermore, the closing chapters provide commentary on this research, as well as mapping out key directions for future research. With a unique focus encompassing both social and developmental psychology, The Development of the Social Self will appeal to a broad spectrum of students and researchers in both disciplines, as well as those working in related areas such as sociology and child development.

Developing the Self

"Through taking hold of all that lives in us, we participate consciously in the transformation of our particular personal self--which is often closed to higher insights--toward a greater possibility of experiencing a living, dynamic spiritual life that awakens our being and serves the progression of the world in which we live" (Lisa Romero). At the foundation of Western esoteric studies is an understanding of the evolution of consciousness. Anthroposophically based esoteric training focuses on strengthening the human soul. Ancient and modern practices are reenlivened to meet humanity's evolving needs and to fulfill our present task of cultivating freedom and love to its highest degree. Individual efforts toward developing the higher self is essential for genuine progress on the inner work path. The clear insights and exercises outlined in this book reveal the meaning and necessity of this essential effort in the present age of the consciousness soul, contributing to simultaneously enlivening both our inner and outer work. The path of developing the self and our work in the world are not separated but united through our practices and their results. CONTENTS Introduction 1. Body, Mind, and Spirit 2. The Soul and the Growth of the Body 3. The "I" and the Development of the Soul 4. The Initiation of the "I" and the Spiritual World

The Development of the Self