What is Symbolic Self-Completion Theory?

Symbolic self-completion theory is a fascinating concept in psychology that explores how people strive to fulfill their self-identities through symbols and actions. Simply put, it suggests that when individuals feel incomplete in their self-concept, they use symbols to help complete that identity.

Key Components

• Self-Concept: This is how we see ourselves. It includes our beliefs, values, and personality traits.
• Symbols: These can be anything from objects, actions, or social roles that represent aspects of our identity. For example, wearing a particular type of clothing can symbolize a lifestyle or belief.
• Completion: When people feel that their self-concept is lacking, they may seek to fill that gap through symbolic means.

How Does It Work?

The theory operates on a few basic steps:

1. Identification: A person identifies with a certain role or identity, like being a parent, an athlete, or a professional.
2. Perceived Incompletion: If the person feels they aren’t fully embodying this identity (perhaps they haven’t achieved certain milestones), they experience a sense of incompletion.
3. Symbolic Actions: To counter this feeling, they may engage in actions or adopt symbols that they believe will help them feel more complete or validated in that identity.

Real-Life Examples

• Career Aspirations: Imagine someone who identifies as an artist but feels they haven’t created enough work. They might start wearing clothing that reflects their artistic style or hang up art supplies in their home to feel more like an artist.
• Parenting: A parent who feels they aren’t doing enough for their child may volunteer at school events or join parenting groups. These actions symbolize their commitment and help them feel more complete in their role as a parent.
• Fitness Goals: A person who identifies as a fitness enthusiast but feels they need to lose weight might buy workout gear or engage more in social media discussions about fitness. These symbols help reinforce their identity.

Comparison with Other Theories

Symbolic self-completion theory is often discussed alongside other psychological theories:

• Self-Determination Theory: Focuses on intrinsic motivation and the fulfillment of three basic psychological needs—autonomy, competence, and relatedness. While self-determination emphasizes internal motivations, symbolic self-completion highlights external symbols that represent self-identity.
• Social Identity Theory: Examines how group memberships influence self-concept. Symbolic self-completion can play a role here, as individuals might adopt symbols to align with a group identity they wish to embody.

Types of Symbols Used

1. Physical Symbols: Items like clothing, jewelry, or vehicles that represent a lifestyle or identity.
2. Behavioral Symbols: Actions taken to reflect an identity, such as participating in community service to represent being philanthropic.
3. Social Symbols: Engaging in group activities or discussions that align with one's identity, like joining a book club to enhance the identity of being an avid reader.

Conclusion

This insightful theory sheds light on why we sometimes go to great lengths to project certain aspects of our identities. By understanding symbolic self-completion, individuals can become more aware of their motivations and the symbols they choose to embody their self-concept.