Michelangelo phenomenon
The Michelangelo phenomenon is an interpersonal process observed by psychologists in which close, romantic partners influence or 'sculpt' each other.
Recent popular work in couples therapy and conflict resolution points to the importance of the Michelangelo phenomenon.
"[3] The Michelangelo phenomenon is related to the looking-glass self concept introduced by Charles Horton Cooley in his 1902 work Human Nature and the Social Order.
The Michelangelo phenomenon describes a three step process where close partners shape each other so as to bring forth one another's ideal selves.
[1] An example of an ideal self is one that includes "completing medical school, becoming more sociable, or learning to speak fluent Dutch.
[6] Research into the influence of others was neglected, even though those with whom the self interacts most regularly can lead to more constant, stable changes in disposition and behavior.
[6] For example, someone with a partner who wants to be more sociable may consciously encourage them to spend more time with their friends, in an effort to help them meet this goal.
On the other hand, knowing that sociability is a goal of their partner, someone may feel less apprehension when organising a social gathering in their space.
An affirming partner may shape someone through a series of selection mechanisms:[1] To add to these three types, other more specific examples of ideal-self-affirming behaviors a partner can enact includes expressing approval of the self's efforts toward goals and offering support such as strategy improvement tips.
[14] An example would be if Jay laughs at Kaylee's jokes and, subtly, reinforces the conception she has of herself as a funny person.
[1] The phenomenon is named after the Italian Renaissance painter, sculptor, architect, poet and engineer Michelangelo (1475-1564).
Michelangelo "described sculpting as a process whereby the artist released a hidden figure from the block of stone in which it slumbered.
"[1] The metaphor of chipping away at a block of stone to reveal the 'ideal form' is extended, in this context, to close relationships.
Drigotas found support that the Michelangelo phenomenon is strongly linked to personal well-being across varied dimensions such as life satisfaction, self esteem, and loneliness.
[16] Further, it is the specific aspect of partner behavioral affirmation that predicts personal well being, and not the general relationship satisfaction that comes about as an effect of processes in the Michelangelo phenomenon.
[18] Assessment orientation describes the inclination of an individual to focus more so on evaluation in their goal pursuit, rather than action.
[1] Much like the Michelangelo phenomenon, this growth-as-hell model of self-growth and movement towards the ideal self is understood to occur most potently in close, romantic relationships.
