Self/Body objectification was said to be connected to an external self-perspective (i.e. exteroception like visual appearance), while an internal self-perspective (i.e. interoception, body awareness) was said to decrease objectification, shame, surveillance (e.g. Noll & Fredrickson, 1998). So, the personal connection with the body was thought to be more negative when external perspective dominates, and positive, when internal perspective dominates.
I argue, that internal perspective can also be negative (like in the case of somatosensory amplification, catastrophization of body sensations, shame about interoceptive experiences, like fatigue), and external perspective can also be positive (satisfaction with and acceptance of appearance). So the consequence of external/internal perspective might depend on the cognitive evaluation of the different sensory input.
What do you think about this argument? Do you know any paper that investigated this complexity of self-awareness?
We have an external self and an internal self. The internal self - thought, feelings about oneself - one's psychology - affects external life. The practice of yoga, pranayama, and meditation help to bring a more positive, balanced view of one's self.
You are correct. External information can be positive e.g. others may be seen to like us. Internal information can be negative e.g. conflicting desires and a perceived inability to reconcile them.
To John Kennedy,
Yes the internal is the real key to work on for psychological wellness. It will bring a solid external view. This is one of the challenges of life. Several or many methods are available.
John, I'm happy to read your agreeing lines. Do you know a paper which supported the same thought, opposing the previous literature which linked internal perspective to positive and external to negative?
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