External image

A foreign image is an image that others make fun of a person, or the image that makes that person over others.

Perception

A foreign image is the totality of all perceptions, feelings and evaluations, have the third of an individual. These perceptions are automatically linked to earlier experiences of the observed person, and with the challenges arising from this link feelings and evaluations. The image that others have of someone whose expectations imprinted against this someone, it shapes the social interaction with each other much with.

Public image and self-image

The perception of others - or more precisely how this is notified to, and what kind of behavior from the perception of others - characterizes the self-image significantly. Positive, appreciative foreign Images strengthen self-confidence and self-esteem. Negative and / or conflicting foreign images can in extreme cases lead to mental illness.

Public image and self-image are always different. From the two perspectives and the difference - or more precisely from the inferences that draw the participants it for themselves - to develop the social interactions, controlled by one's self of the participants.

Perception of others in the group dynamics

A conscious use of images over each other plays an important role in group dynamics. In feedback exercises giving and receiving of foreign images is trained. The Johari Window describes the relationship of external and self- image, and of conscious and unconscious portions of these images. With "awareness exercises " Mindfulness is trained to detect previously unconscious expectations of third parties, and with communication exercises is trained to coordinate own and others' images and expectations of each other.

In psychotherapy

Also in psychotherapy dealing with foreign images is an issue. For example, in the treatment of depression or the effects of trauma or bullying, or more generally in supporting member of marginalized groups.