What does the "looking-glass self" concept describe?

The "looking-glass self" concept, developed by sociologist Charles Horton Cooley, emphasizes that self-image is significantly influenced by how individuals perceive others' perceptions of them. In this view, individuals see themselves through the "looking glass" of social interactions, where they imagine how they appear to others, how they believe others judge them, and how these judgments ultimately influence their self-concept.

This concept underscores the relational aspect of identity formation. Rather than being formed in isolation or strictly through personal introspection, one's sense of self is continually shaped by social feedback and interaction. The idea is that individuals use social cues to gauge how they are perceived, and this reflective process contributes to their self-identity. While personal introspection and cultural influences play roles in self-image, the looking-glass self specifically highlights the importance of social perception and relational dynamics in shaping how individuals view themselves.