Impossible Self: preliminary research in the context of the theory of Hazel Marcus
On the basis of a pilot empirical study involving 159 people aged 15 to 29 (M = 19.9, SD = 2.16), it is proposed to detail the theory of Hazel Marcus on the Possible Self (1986) as a component of the self-concept. It is shown that among all the diversity of the most significant (according to the subjective assessment) Possible I exist such variants of it that are influenced by rumination and neuroticism and are associated with a high level of negative affect and self-blame. Manifestations of non-constructive phenomena of self-consciousness that arise around them seem to restrain the energy of the desired Possible Ego, in the norm existing for energy facilitation and enhancement of motivation. The obtained estimates of the parameters of Possible Self and personal variables do not depend on the specific content of the opportunities formulated by the respondents, demonstrating the universal nature of the phenomenon detected. This phenomenon is proposed to be designated as Impossible I. The practical significance of the new construct and the direction of its further research are discussed. A Russian translation and a modification of the diagnostic technique for Possible I (author - Karen Hucher) are published.