This book investigates the scientific study of self and identity within social psychology. It presents cutting-edge work from leading scholars on diverse topics including self-dynamics, self-structure, impression management, intimate relationships, and the interplay between self-motives and consistency motives. The text explores fundamental questions about the benefits of intimate relationships for individuals with low self-esteem, the link between self-knowledge and psychological adjustment, and the conscious or automatic nature of self-presentation in significant social engagements. It aims to provide readers with new insights into a subject that has long captivated human thought.

This collection of scholarly work offers a comprehensive overview of contemporary research in social psychology concerning the self and identity. The contributions from leading scholars provide detailed insights into complex psychological phenomena, suggesting a text geared towards an academic or advanced student audience. The exploration of foundational questions regarding self-esteem, adjustment, and social presentation indicates a focus on empirical research and theoretical frameworks within the field.