Testing an Algebraic Model of Self-Reflexion

Abstract

Self-reflexion is the conscious process of taking the position of an observer in relation to one's own thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Building on the work of Lefebvre, Lefebvre, and Adams-Webber, we used a formal algebraic model of self-reflexion to derive several predictions regarding the frequencies with which individuals would rate themselves and others positively on bipolar scales anchored by adjective terms. The current results from 108 participants (41 men, 67 women; M age = 20.2 yr.) confirmed two predictions derived from the model. Three other predictions, however, were not supported even though the observed frequencies were close to the predicted values. Although not as promising as results reported by Lefebvre, et al., these mixed findings were interpreted as encouraging support for the validity of Lefebvre's algebraic model of self-reflexion. Differences between the current methods and those from previous investigations were also examined, and methodological implications for further studies were discussed.