Looking Glass Self Reflection Paper

My first semester of college held many expectations for me. I sought to do well and thought I 'd have no problem earning A’s and maybe a B. The one class I was not looking forward to was Interpersonal Communication. I selected this course specifically thinking it would require the least amount of public speaking. I never imagined what a struggle this first semester would end up being. Even more surprising was the love and intrigue I developed for my communications class. It quickly became my favorite. I could not have anticipated how much I would learn about myself and how the way I communicated with others affected our relationship. My daily interactions are primarily family and UAA faculty. There is occasional interaction with other students

Cognitive dissonance was something I learned to live with a very young age. My sense of self has never been incredibly stable. Or rather it has never been positive. I do not see myself as intelligent, worthy or capable. I knew these beliefs were drilled into my head since I was a child. Now I know and can connect these individual things to a deeper meaning. The theory of looking glass self was a revelation and a bit of a relief. I understand why I see myself the way I do. It might not be right, but it is indeed how I think others see me. My interaction with others being critical with developing my sense of myself makes complete sense now. I was abused, raped, experienced multiple trauma and hospitalized eight times by the age of 17. It is like a huge wake up call. And it may very well change my life. All these things that I have struggled with now make sense and give me hope. As weird as that sounds, it is true. The looking glass self theory will help me reevaluate everything I thought I knew and learned in the hospital. It gives me hope that I can change. With that change will come better communication and positivity. I know many people who will be thrilled to see the changes I have made.

There is a lot of work to do yet but I have learned all the necessary tools to lead a better, more communicative life. This doesn’t relate to interpersonal communication but I have confidence now. Talking alone used to be a chore for me. Now I have the means to actually carry out a conversation. This class has been a ray of positivity for my soul. I will continue working on my weaknesses but I am also ready to go out there and put what I have learned to good