Abstract

Although the human body is obviously the most evident of all human phenomena it is also the invisible foundation of mans total abilities. Mans body is at the same time the representation of his abilities and of his fundamental needs. This key role of the human body therefore constitutes an important contribution of the self-concept of the young child. No theoretical discussion on self-concept can be well-founded without recognizing the influence of mans bodiliness. The child identifies with his bodiliness. Because of the intimate relationship the child has with his own body, it is a fundamental identification that has to be made in order to give meaning to his existence. If the child fails in his attempts to identify with his bodily abilities as well as shortcomings, he will inevitably be inclined not only to bodily alienation, but also to experience alienation from the everyday world. Mans bodiliness is interwoven with his world of living. The quality of the childs relationship with his own body influences his relationship with the world. This article attempts to show that identification with ones own bodiliness should be seen as a prerequisite for establishing a positive self-concept. Verf.-Referat