The Material Self

Cards (10)

  • The material self is a combination of all the physical elements you own and have that supposedly reflect who you are
  • As early as childhood, you already have an idea about what is yours.
  • Possessions that help make the transition from dependence to independence easier?
    Transitional object
  • It can be an extension of their primary caregiver and gives them a feeling of comfort?
    Transitional objects
  • A transitional object is something that helps children cope with separation anxiety when they’re away from their parents or guardians.
  • William James defined the material self as the objects, the places and even people that you label as mine.
  • Richins and Dawson defined materialistic values as the importance a person places on possessions and their acquisition as a necessary or desirable form of conduct to reach desired end states, including appreciation and also happiness.
  • It is hard to sustain a high level of consumerism as it can also impact your well-being.
  • Consumerism has been linked to depression, low self-esteem, poorer mental health, and lower life satisfaction.
  • Unethical consumerism is the idea that we should consume as much as possible to make ourselves happy