CHAPTER 2: UNPACKING THE SELF

At the end of the chapter, you should be able to:

1. Explore the different aspects of self and identity;

2. Demonstrate critical and reflective thought in integrating the various aspects of self
and identity;
3. Identify the different forces and institutions that impact on the development of
various aspects of self and identity; and
4. Examine yourself against the different aspects of self.

LESSON 5: Physical Aspect of Self

ENGAGE

Ice Breaker

Me, Myself and I

➢ What can I say about my physical appearance?

➢ What can you say about my physical appearance?

EXPLORE

Short Video

Kindly watch the video about physical self:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bbctOmdSeTY

EXPLAIN

Our face represents more of our physical self. It provides other people an initial
impression about who we are and what we are.
THE SELF AS THE BODY

• The physical self refers to the body. It is the tangible aspect of the person that can
be directly observed and examined
• The physical self if defined by physical characteristics that are visible. These
characteristics are the defining traits and features of the body. Sex, height,
complexion, hair and facial features are among the common physical features
identified when one is asked to describe another person.
• The physical aspect of the self does not include characteristics that are internal to
the self such as kindness, generosity and other similar qualities.

IMPACT OF CULTURE ON BEAUTY AND BODY IMAGE

• Usually, only the physical features such as the face and body figure are considered
as bases for beauty. The appearance of a person can be an asset or a liability. A
person with beautiful face is likely to receive accolades and enjoy being described
as angelic or having a face that could launch a thousand ships.
• To be beautiful means to enjoy a lot of privileges and advantages in society such as
gaining more attention from people.
• However, being beautiful is sometimes a liability. People perceived as beautiful may
find it difficult to get rid of many stalkers; their security and privacy may be at risk.
• Most prominently, present culture prescribes that being beautiful is a necessity, an
obligation in order to be liked and loved. Many products are created just to change
or improve one’s appearance such as beauty soaps, cosmetics and many more.
• It is true that beauty is important. Caring for one’s beauty is very different from
altering or modifying it.

ACHIEVING PHYSICAL WELL-BEING

• To achieve and maintain a good and balanced physical well-being,

consider the following steps:
• Eat healthy foods
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle
• Follow proper hygiene
• Engage in daily exercise
• Take vitamins and drink fruit juices
• Avoid stress
• Spend less time in front of computers and gadgets

ELABORATE

Activity 5.1

Watch the movie 200 pounds beauty (2006). Afterwards, answer the following questions:
 1. Describe the physical self of the main character (1) at the beginning of the movie,
and (2) at the end of the movie.
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2. What is the climax of the story? How does this turning point appeal to you?
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3. Based on the entire narrative and on the ending, what kind of beauty is prescribed
or supported by the film? Explain your answer.
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EVALUATE

WRITE DOWN FIVE (5) PHYSICAL ACTIVITIES THAT YOU SHOULD DO FOR YOU TO HAVE A
HEALTHY BODY.

1. __________________________________

2. __________________________________

3. __________________________________

4. __________________________________

5. __________________________________

DO YOU WORRY ABOUT HOW OTHERS PERCEIVE YOUR BODY? WHY OR WHY NOT?

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 LESSON 5: Sexual Aspect
of Self

ENGAGE

ICE BREAKER: THROWING A PERSONAL QUESTION

EXPLORE

WHAT CAN YOU SAY ABOUT THESE PICTURES:

EXPLAIN

Academic institutions are the best space to educate people about sexuality and
sexual behaviors under this topic. The goal of this is to battle ignorance of the youth
on sex, sexuality, relationships, and sexual health.

SIGMUND FREUD AND THE DESIRE FOR PLEASURE

• For him, all human behavior is motivated by the desire to feel pleasure. Such
motivation is organized and controlled by two instincts: sexuality and aggression. He
theorized that these instincts are driven by a form of internal psychic energy called
libido.
• According to him, human instinct continuously seeks the pleasure of the flesh which
can be satisfied through sex.
The mind plays an important role in one’s sexuality and sexual behavior. When one is
sexually attracted to someone, it is expected that he or she will not aggressively act
on his or her urges so as not to be accused of harassment.
Humans have the ability to control their sexual urges. People may engage in sexual
activities because of feelings of love and admiration. However, sex must be
understood only as one of the many factors that drive people to act and behave the
way they do.

HUMAN SEXUAL RESPONSES

 • Sexual response cycle is the term used to describe the changes that occur in the body
as men and women become sexually aroused. The cycle is divided into four phases,
namely excitement, plateau, orgasm, and resolution.
a. Excitement – this is when the body gets ready for sexual activity.
b. Plateau – during this phase, intensified breathing, high blood pressure, and
faster heart rate may be experienced as well as muscle contraction in the
face, feet and hands.
c. Orgasm – this is referred to as the climax of the cycle.
d. Resolution - the body gradually returns to its normal level of functioning.

UNDERSTANDING THE CHEMISTRY OF LUST, ATTRACTION AND ATTACHMENT

• Helen Fisher of Rutgers University identified three stages of love. These are lust,
attraction and excitement.
• Lust (libido or sexual drive)is characterized by the desire for sexual gratification which
is inherent to every living organism.
• Attraction (passionate or obsessive love, infatuation) is characterized by the intense
attention given to a desired partner. This stage is driven by chemical and hormones
like adrenaline, dopamine, and serotonin. Adrenaline is released by the body for the
“fight” or “flight.” Dopamine ignites an intense rush of pleasure when released.
Serotonin is attributed to “falling in love” as this hormone makes a person think of his
or her desired partner at most times.
• Attachment (companionate love) is characterized by the desire of couples to stay
together. A person who is already attached feels comfort and security from his or her
partner. This stage is driven by two major hormones, namely oxytocin and vasopressin.
Oxytocin (cuddle hormone) is released during orgasm. The feeling of attachment
becomes more intense after a couple has sexual intercourse. Vasopressin (anti-
diuretic hormone)is released after sexual intercourse.

WHAT TURNS PEOPLE ON AND OFF

• A “turn on” refers to something that someone may find desirable, pleasant, beautiful,
likeable or any other positive quality. A “turn off” is the complete opposite.
• Turns on and turns off usually refer to another person’s physical traits, attributes,
attitudes, and conduct that one may find desirable or not.
• For teens, turn ons and turn offs may focus on the physical attributes and personal
qualities of someone from the opposite sex.
• For young adults and mature adults, turn ons and turn offs may be associated with
sexual activities.
• What turns people on and off are qualities and acts that people observe and
experience. It can be the different things that one comes in contact with constantly.
An individual’s turn ons and turn offs can simply serve as markers of one’s personality
and identity.
ELABORATE

Activity 6.1

It is natural to feel attracted to another person. What are the factors that “turn you
on” to another person? List down the physical and attitudinal or behavioral traits that
you find appealing.
Physical Traits Attitudinal/Behavioral Traits

EVALUATE

Do you favor the inclusion of sex education in the high school curriculum?
Explain your answer.

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