Compartmentalization and Integration: The Evaluative Organization of Contextualized Selves
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
12-1-2007
Department
Psychology
Abstract
This article reviews research on the evaluative organization (compartmentalized or integrative) of contextualized selves. Evaluatively compartmentalized self-structures consist of multiple selves, each of which is either mostly positive or mostly negative. Evaluatively integrative self-structures represent each self with a mixture of positive and negative attributes. These different styles of organizing self-knowledge have been linked to current mood and self-esteem. More recently, studies of evaluative organization have examined self-esteem stability, coping styles (e.g., self-enhancement or resilience), change in self-organization, as well as psychopathology and psychological treatment. Findings suggest that compartmentalized self-structures, typically associated with the highest levels of self-esteem, may be vulnerable to instability. In contrast, the more moderate self-views of individuals with integrative self-structures may offer greater stability, increased resilience, and a means of coping with extreme stress.
Publication Title
Journal of Personality
Volume
75
Issue
6
First Page
1181
Last Page
1204
Recommended Citation
Showers, C.,
Zeigler-Hill, V.
(2007). Compartmentalization and Integration: The Evaluative Organization of Contextualized Selves. Journal of Personality, 75(6), 1181-1204.
Available at: https://aquila.usm.edu/fac_pubs/1860