Self-Perception Theory: The Case of the Surgeon that Could

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How we make sense of our own behavior can have a profound impact on how we come to know ourselves. This sense-making function that human beings engage in is not simply to create our identity, but also serves as a survival mechanism (Frank & Frank, 1991). For example, how we interpret events in our lives can actually contribute to disease or serve to prevent disease. We use phrases such as “the glass is half-full” or “think positively” in hopes of realizing the positive results of interpreting our own behavior and the behavior of others in the best possible light. Throughout this book, you are being exposed to various theories and approaches to explaining and casing persuasion. Can a person self-persuade? How would such a process take place? What elements would be involved? In this chapter, we will discuss self-perception theory, explain the major theoretical assumptions, and illustrate how this theory can explain the behavioral change through a case study titled The Case of the Surgeon That Could.