What often leads to anxiety in a person's self-concept?

Incongruence between self and experience is a significant factor that can lead to anxiety concerning a person's self-concept. When there is a mismatch between how individuals perceive themselves (their self-concept) and their actual experiences or reality, it can create feelings of internal conflict, distress, and anxiety. This incongruence might occur when a person holds an idealized view of themselves that is not aligned with their lived experiences, leading to feelings of inadequacy or self-doubt.

For example, if someone sees themselves as confident but frequently feels insecure or faces rejection, this discrepancy can contribute to anxiety as they struggle to reconcile these opposing feelings. The heightened anxiety arises from the tension between the self-concept and the reality of their experiences, ultimately prompting a critical self-assessment and emotional turmoil.

In contrast, congruence between self and experience reflects harmony and alignment, which typically fosters a more stable sense of self and lower anxiety levels. Dependency on others for validation could also contribute to anxiety, but it is more related to external factors rather than the internal conflict inherent in incongruence. Similarly, stable self-esteem suggests a consistent and positive self-view, which is generally associated with resilience against anxiety, not its promotion.