Cutting a diamond out of stone: psychological perspectives on changing self and identity

Abstract

Perhaps a diamond is hidden in each of us, but can we bring it out? The conviction that we can be whoever we want to be is widespread. Books, courses and ‘ten-step programs’ all provide recommendations for self-improvement and claim that dramatic changes in the way we feel about ourselves, in the relationships we have with others, and in our achievements at work are within reach. Television programs like ‘Extreme makeover’ suggest that even aspects of our appearance that we tend to see as immutable can be altered, and that everyone can change into an attractive person. We can boost our self-esteem with the aid of a therapist, who is nowadays easily available on the internet, people who are dieting or quit smoking share their experiences with us so that we can follow suit, and at work guidelines are offered to help us optimise the way we interact with clients or co-workers. But to what extent can we actually change the way we are? Can we really consider these aspects of self as a set of accessories that we can put on or take off at will, or are they ingrained into our identity? Is it possible to attain an ideal self by just wiping away undesirable aspects of our identity? Can every chunk of coal actually become a diamond someday? These questions are the focus of this special issue that addresses different psychological perspectives relevant to the processes of change in self and identity.