The Self Objects

Self objects are parts of our personality that help us feel whole, confident, and emotionally balanced. They are individuals—like parents, friends, or even ourselves—that provide essential support, validation, and understanding during different life stages. These interactions help shape our self-esteem and sense of identity. For example, receiving encouragement from a mentor can serve as a self-object function, helping us feel secure and valued. Essentially, self objects are the psychological tools or relationships that nurture our sense of self, much like emotional scaffolding that supports our well-being and development.