Abstract
Herein I identify a novel cognitive/existential-based trait that embodies the individual's perception of his/her self as a hero (HERS). In line with Blatt's and Beck's theories and social constructivist thought, HERS is conceptualized as consisting of three dimensions: self-as-conqueror, self-as-savior, and heroic identification. Associated not only with a sense of agency but also with psychopathology, it reflects the risk-resilience dialectic. A 9-item measure—the Shahar Heroic Self Scale (SHERS)—was developed and administered to 661 young Israeli adults. The results of the confirmatory factor analyses were consistent with the theorized factor structure, an adequate internal consistency was demonstrated for the three dimensions. Sub-sample analyses utilizing available variables confirmed a link between SHERS and efficacy and indicated a prospective—albeit complex—pattern of implication in psychopathology. Ramifications, limitations, and future directions are discussed.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
