Final answer:
Yes, individuals have the ability to improve their self-concept. Positive self-concept development is integral from childhood to adolescence and can be influenced by self-awareness, reflection, and receiving unconditional positive regard. Humanistic theories, like those of Carl Rogers, suggest that self-improvement and congruence between the ideal self and the real self lead to greater self-worth.
Step-by-step explanation:
Individuals do have the ability to improve their own self-concept. The development of a positive self-concept is crucial for healthy development, starting as early as toddlerhood according to Erikson's stages of psychosocial development. Moreover, comparing oneself favorably to others during elementary school can foster a sense of competence and motivation. Adolescents re-evaluate their self-concept, progressing towards identity formation which contributes positively to society. Carl Rogers, a humanistic theorist, emphasized the importance of achieving congruence between our ideal self (who we would like to be) and our real self (who we actually are). He believed in the concept of unconditional positive regard from parents as a way to support children achieving high self-congruence, leading to a greater sense of self-worth. Individuals can consciously change their attitudes and beliefs through self-awareness and reflection, suggesting that self-improvement is within one's control.