Some people define themselves in terms of their parents, spouse, or children, their clan, gang, community, college, or nation. Self-image also develops between four and six. This is the looking-glass self, the me as others see me. This is the impression I make on others, my look, my social esteem or status, including my sexual identity. It is the beginning of what conscience, ideal self, and persona.
Rational coping is learned predominantly in the years from six till twelve.
The child begins to develop his or her abilities to deal with life s problems rationally and effectively. This is analogous to Erikson s industry. Propriate striving doesn t usually begin till after twelve years old. This is my self as goals, ideal, plans, vocations, callings, a sense of direction, a sense of purpose. Traits or dispositions Now, as the proprium is developing in this way, we are also developing personal traits , or personal dispositions .