Symbolic self-completion theory

The theory of symbolic self-completion is a psychological theory which holds that individuals seek to acquire and display symbols that are strongly related to what they perceive as the ideal self.[1] For example, relatively effeminate boys who want to appear macho may use products associated with manliness—such as a strong cologne or a silver watch—in hopes of symbolically fulfilling their self-definitions, i.e. becoming manly. Such cases of symbolic self-completion are seen in internet communication, marketing and advertising, and consumer behavior.

  1. ^ Wicklund, Robert A.; Gollwitzer, Peter M. (1982). Symbolic self-completion. Hillsdale, N.J.: L. Erlbaum Associates: L. Erlbaum Associates. ISBN 978-0898592139.