Final answer:
Chester's working self-concept changes with the social group he is with, indicating that self-perception is influenced by immediate social interactions as well as broader developmental stages. Psychological constructs like congruence between ideal and real self, and ongoing self-awareness play significant roles in shaping one's self-concept throughout life.
Step-by-step explanation:
The working self-concept is a component of psychological self-perception that is adaptable and changes depending on the social environment and interactions a person has. For example, Chester's self-determination of being liberal or athletic indicates how his self-description alters based on whether he is with his conservative family or his tennis team. This phenomenon is influenced by various psychological theories, including those by Carl Rogers, who emphasized the importance of achieving congruence between the ideal self and real self for a healthier life, and by Charles Herbert Cooley, who introduced the concept of 'the looking-glass self', suggesting that we shape our self-concept through the reactions we perceive from others.
Moreover, during adolescence, the phase of identity formation as proposed by Erikson, individuals especially re-evaluate their self-concept. Positive reinforcement, like the unconditional positive regard Rogers speaks of, can lead to a more robust and favorable self-concept. Acknowledging that self-awareness and identity resources are vital in navigating not only personal life but also career choices, as proposed by modern educators, aligns with this understanding of self-concept.