Which concept relates to development of the self through self talk in Cognitive Theory?

• A. Schemas
• B. Core beliefs
• C. Development of the self through self talk
• D. Conditioning

Answer: (C)

Internal self-talk is a key cognitive process through which the self is shaped. When people talk to themselves—planning steps, rehearsing actions, evaluating outcomes, and adjusting strategies—they actively regulate their thoughts and behaviors. This ongoing inner dialogue helps construct self-identity and self-efficacy by influencing motivation, perceived control, and persistence in the face of challenges. In cognitive theory, development of the self happens as these internal conversations translate experience into meaning and guide future actions, rather than through external reinforcement alone. Schemas are broader knowledge structures that organize information, core beliefs are deep-held assumptions about the self often targeted in therapy, and conditioning is about learning from environmental cues and consequences. The process of inner speech driving self-development best fits the idea of development of the self through self talk.