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MCAT Monday: Individuals and Society - Self-Identity


Foundational Concept 8 focuses on the physical, cognitive, and social components of our identity, as well as how these components influence the way we think about and interact with others.


With these building blocks, medical students will be able to learn how to communicate and collaborate with patients and other members of the health care team. (via AAMC)


The content in this category covers the notions of self-concept and identity, along with the role of self-esteem, self-efficacy, and locus of control in the development of self-concept. Identity formation, including developmental stages and the social factors that affect identity formation, is also covered here. Theories are included to provide historical context for the field of identity formation. (via AAMC)


Videos:

Practice Questions:

1. Which of the following statements accurately describes the terms “sex” and “gender?” Choose 1 answer:

  • A: Sex refers to biological identity, whereas gender refers to psychological or social identity.

  • B: Sex and gender are interchangeable terms; both describe choices regarding sexuality and romantic partnerships.

  • C: Sex and gender are interchangeable terms; both describe biological and psychological or social identity.

  • D: Sex refers to psychological or social identity, whereas gender refers to biological identity.

2. The “American Dream” is the idea that if a person believes in their ability to apply themselves and work towards their goals, they can achieve success and happiness. Which of the following qualities does the American Dream describe? Choose 1 answer:

  • A: Self esteem

  • B: Self concept

  • C: Self efficacy

  • D: Self awareness

3. Amanda is working on a research project that studies the beliefs, cognitions and knowledge that her friends have about themselves. What is her project focused on? Choose 1 answer:

  • A: Self awareness

  • B: Self concept

  • C: Self esteem

  • D: Self efficacy

4. Deindividuation refers to a psychological state that results in non-normative behavior when a person is in the presence of a group. Which of the following typically decreases during the process of deindividuation? Choose 1 answer:

  • A: Self efficacy

  • B: Self awareness

  • C: Superego

  • D: Self esteem

5. Andrew is a pre-med student who has an internal locus of control. If he does well on the MCAT, to what is he most likely to attribute his success? Choose 1 answer:

  • A: His intelligence and hard work

  • B: An easier version of the test

  • C: His lucky socks

  • D: Khan Academy’s tutorials

6. Which of the following parental styles is associated with high self-esteem in children? Choose 1 answer:

  • A: Permissive

  • B: Authoritative

  • C: Authoritarian

  • D: Uninvolved

7. In which of Erikson’s stages of human development does an individual begin to develop a sense of self? Choose 1 answer:

  • A: Young adulthood

  • B: Adulthood

  • C: Latency

  • D: Adolescence

8. According to Freudian theory, where does self-identity develop? Choose 1 answer:

  • A: Sexual impulse

  • B: The superego

  • C: The ego

  • D: The id

9. How is the Freudian theory of psychosexual development similar to the Eriksonian theory of human development? Choose 1 answer:

  • A: Both theories emphasize the importance of social influences in each stage of development.

  • B: Both theories assert that the majority of human development occurs later on in life, rather than in childhood.

  • C: Both theories focus on stages of development that are characterized by a central crisis that must be resolved.

  • D: Both theories focus on the importance of sexuality and libido in each stage of development.

10. Which of the following is a core principle of Vygotsky’s sociocultural theory of development? Choose 1 answer:

  • A: Children are able to reach their highest potential when they are given the opportunity to learn on their own.

  • B: Children are able to reach their highest potential when they have consistent, stable care from their parents.

  • C: Children are able to reach their highest potential when they are able to overcome their sexual impulses.

  • D: Children are able to reach their highest potential when they are in the presence of skilled and knowledgeable instructors.

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