Self-Monitoring

Definition

Self-monitoring is the process of observing and regulating one's own behaviors and expressions in social situations to create desired impressions on others. This concept involves being aware of how one is perceived by others and adjusting one’s actions accordingly, which connects deeply with self-presentation strategies and the ways attitudes influence behavior. Self-monitors may vary in their levels of this trait, impacting their social interactions and the authenticity of their behaviors.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. High self-monitors are often more adaptable in social situations, changing their behavior to fit different contexts, while low self-monitors tend to act more consistently based on their true feelings.
2. Self-monitoring can influence relationships, as individuals who are more attuned to social cues may have better interpersonal skills and social networks.
3. People with high self-monitoring skills might be perceived as less genuine because they adjust their behavior for social approval.
4. Self-monitoring can affect how attitudes predict behavior; those who are high self-monitors might behave differently than expected based on their stated attitudes due to situational influences.
5. Research suggests that self-monitoring is linked to various personality traits, including extraversion and openness, impacting how individuals navigate social environments.

Review Questions

• How does self-monitoring influence the way individuals present themselves in social settings?
  • Self-monitoring significantly impacts how individuals adapt their behavior to fit different social contexts. Those who are high self-monitors are likely to assess the reactions of others and modify their actions accordingly, often leading to more favorable impressions. This adaptability can enhance social interactions but may also raise concerns about authenticity, as these individuals might prioritize impression management over genuine self-expression.
• In what ways does self-monitoring affect the relationship between attitudes and actual behaviors in various contexts?
  • Self-monitoring plays a crucial role in shaping the connection between attitudes and behaviors. High self-monitors are more likely to adjust their behaviors based on situational cues rather than strictly adhering to their expressed attitudes. This flexibility can lead to discrepancies where an individual's behavior may not align with their stated beliefs, especially in contexts where social approval is perceived as important.
• Evaluate how individual differences in self-monitoring can impact interpersonal relationships and group dynamics.
  • Differences in self-monitoring can have significant effects on interpersonal relationships and group dynamics. High self-monitors often excel in navigating complex social interactions, making them more effective communicators and networkers. However, this adaptability might also create perceptions of insincerity, potentially affecting trust within relationships. Conversely, low self-monitors may foster deeper connections through authenticity but might struggle in situations requiring social finesse, impacting group cohesion and interaction.

Related terms

Social Comparison:

The act of evaluating oneself in relation to others to gain insights about personal abilities or characteristics.

Impression Management: The process by which individuals attempt to control the impressions others form of them during social interactions.

Attitude-Behavior Consistency: The degree to which a person's attitudes align with their behaviors, often influenced by situational factors and self-perception.