How many selves are defined within the individual in therapeutic communication?

In therapeutic communication, the individual is often understood to encompass four distinct selves: the ideal self, the real self, the public self, and the social self.

The ideal self represents who a person aspires to be and reflects their dreams and goals. The real self is the person’s actual experiences, thoughts, and feelings, encapsulating their true identity. The public self denotes the persona that is presented to others, influenced by societal expectations and norms. Lastly, the social self includes how individuals interact and relate to others in various social contexts.

This multifaceted understanding of the self is crucial in therapeutic settings, as it helps to uncover discrepancies between how individuals perceive themselves, how they wish to be perceived, and how they engage with others. By exploring these different aspects of self, therapists can foster a deeper level of self-awareness and personal growth in their clients.