The development of women's sense of self

Abstract

As now incorporated into psychological thought, the definition of the self reflects major trends in Western history. Current psychological definitions can be usefully understood in this light, especially in that they emphasize separation and individuation but may neglect the intricacies of human interconnection. The psychological characteristics that result from the latter life activity have not been incorporated into prevalent conceptions of the self, nor into the delineation of the processes of development. Data derived from the close examination of women can lead to new understanding of both women and men.