What does the "self" represent in Carl Rogers' theory?

In Carl Rogers' humanistic theory of personality, the "self" represents the organized, consistent set of perceptions and beliefs that individuals hold about themselves. This concept is central to Rogers’ ideas about self-concept, which includes an individual's awareness of their own unique identity, including their strengths and weaknesses. The self is shaped by personal experiences, emotional responses, and interactions with others, leading to a comprehensive understanding of who a person is.

Rogers emphasized the importance of self-actualization, which is the process of realizing and fulfilling one's potential. A positive self-concept is integral to this process, as it encourages individuals to pursue growth and authenticity. Therefore, option A directly aligns with Rogers' perspective, highlighting the self as a coherent and stable construct that influences behavior and experiences.

The other choices do not encapsulate Rogers' understanding of the self. Emotional responses are significant in his theory but do not define the self. Unconscious desires and drives are more closely associated with psychoanalytic theories, while the influence of societal norms pertains to social psychology rather than the individual self-concept central to Rogers' humanistic approach.