By: Arshid Qalmi
The concept of the self is an intricate and dynamic phenomenon, evolving across various stages of life. From childhood to old age, individuals undergo transformations in their physical, emotional, social, intellectual, and moral dimensions, each contributing to their overall identity and experiences. Understanding these changes provides valuable insight into human growth and development, offering a comprehensive perspective on how the self is shaped by life’s challenges and opportunities.
As a teacher from district Pulwama, I had the privilege of participating in a 10-day workshop on ‘Theater in Education’, organized by the Department of Education Jammu and Kashmir in collaboration with the Piramal Foundation. The workshop, which also involved experts from the National School of Drama, Delhi, provided a unique platform for educators to explore innovative teaching methodologies. A significant focus of the workshop was on the concept of the self, which was examined through in-depth discussions, debates, and interactive activities. Engaging in this experience allowed me to reflect on how the self evolves through different developmental stages and how theater can serve as a powerful medium for self-exploration and expression.
In early childhood, the physical self is primarily centered on motor development and bodily awareness. Children begin to explore their environment, developing coordination and an early sense of body image. The emotional self is still in its formative phase, with young children relying on caregivers to regulate their emotions. Their expressions of joy, fear, frustration, and attachment are critical elements in their early emotional development. At this stage, the social ‘self’ starts to emerge as children interact with family members and peers, learning fundamental social skills such as sharing, communication, and cooperation. Simultaneously, the cognitive self takes shape as children display curiosity, ask questions, and engage in basic problem-solving. Their moral self is primarily influenced by external figures such as parents and teachers, where concepts of right and wrong are understood through reinforcement rather than internalized reasoning.
During adolescence, the physical self undergoes significant changes due to puberty, leading to heightened self-awareness and concerns about appearance. Adolescents often grapple with body image issues and the pressure to conform to societal standards. The emotional self becomes more complex, as teenagers experience mood swings, heightened self-consciousness, and a growing need for independence. Learning to regulate emotions and build resilience becomes a crucial part of their development. The social self is heavily shaped by peer influence, friendships, and romantic relationships, as adolescents seek a sense of belonging and identity. The cognitive ‘self’ advances, enabling abstract thinking, critical reasoning and introspection. Adolescents begin to question authority, explore different ideologies, and develop personal viewpoints. The moral ‘self’ transitions from rule-based ethics to more nuanced moral reasoning, as teenagers start evaluating ethical dilemmas from multiple perspectives. Additionally, the sexual self emerges as adolescents begin exploring their gender identity and boundaries in relationships.
In early adulthood, the physical self stabilizes, and individuals develop a greater awareness of health and fitness. Maintaining a balanced lifestyle becomes a priority as responsibilities increase. The emotional ‘self’ matures, with individuals becoming more adept at emotional regulation, self-reflection, and interpersonal relationships. This stage is characterized by the pursuit of deep and meaningful connections, whether in friendships, romantic partnerships, or professional networks. The social self takes on new dimensions as individuals navigate careers, build families, and establish independence. The cognitive self continues to grow through professional learning, problem-solving, and exposure to diverse perspectives. The vocational ‘self’ gains prominence as career aspirations and professional identity become central to personal fulfilment. Ethical decision-making becomes more refined in the moral self, as individuals integrate personal values with real-world challenges.
Middle adulthood is marked by shifts in the physical self, with early signs of aging prompting individuals to focus on maintaining long-term health. The emotional self stabilizes further, with individuals displaying greater resilience, self-acceptance, and wisdom. Relationships take on deeper significance, often revolving around family responsibilities, mentorship, and long-term commitments. The social ‘self’ expands through leadership roles, community involvement, and professional influence. The cognitive self remains active, with individuals continuously learning, adapting, and solving complex problems. The vocational self reaches its peak, with career achievements and mentorship playing a significant role in self-identity. The moral self is often refined through life experiences, leading individuals to focus on ethical legacies and social responsibility. The spiritual self also gains prominence, as many seek deeper meaning and connection through philosophical reflection or faith.
In late adulthood, the physical self undergoes a natural decline, requiring adjustments in lifestyle to accommodate changing physical capabilities. The emotional self becomes more reflective, as individuals look back on their life journey with a mix of nostalgia, satisfaction, and, at times, regret. The social self is shaped by strong family bonds, friendships, and community engagement, with individuals prioritizing meaningful interactions over social expansion. The cognitive self may face challenges such as memory decline, yet wisdom and lived experiences provide a rich perspective on life’s meaning. The vocational ‘self’ transitions into retirement, with personal projects, hobbies, and volunteerism becoming new sources of fulfilment. The moral and spiritual selves take center stage, as individuals seek to understand their legacy, impart values to future generations, and find peace in their journey.
Through the workshop on ‘Theater in Education’, I had the opportunity to reflect on how these dimensions of the ‘self’ interact and evolve. The discussions and activities reinforced the idea that self-development is a continuous process shaped by personal experiences, relationships, societal influences, and inner reflection. Theater, as an expressive art form, offers a unique way to explore these dimensions, allowing individuals to embody different perspectives, process emotions, and engage with the deeper aspects of their identity.
The interconnections between these domains are evident throughout life. The emotional ‘self’ influences the social self, the cognitive ‘self’ shapes the moral self, and the physical ‘self’ impacts overall well-being. Understanding and nurturing these aspects at every stage fosters a balanced, meaningful, and resilient existence. The insights gained from the workshop have further enriched my perspective as an educator, reinforcing the importance of integrating self-awareness into learning and personal growth. Recognizing the evolving nature of the self helps individuals navigate their journey with wisdom, adaptability, and purpose.
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