The self-image and time perspective of modern youth

Abstract

This article examines the formation of a positive self-image as a foundation for effective personal and professional self-determination of modern youth and as a resource for adequately responding to the challenges of the surrounding reality. In a rapidly changing world, young people need to adaptively and productively build their own time perspective by focusing on their resources, values, and potential opportunities. The study aims to identify the specific features of time perspective in relation to the characteristics of the self-image of modern young people. Materials and Methods. The features of self-image were studied using the ‘Who Am I?’ test by M. Kuhn and T. McPartland (as modified by T. V. Rumyantseva), while time perspective was assessed using the Zimbardo Time Perspective Inventory and the Possible Future Image method (V. N. Petrova). Empirical data were processed using SPSS Statistics 25 software, applying the Spearman correlation test, Mann–Whitney U-test, and multiple regression analysis. The sample consisted of 126 participants aged 18–23 years (46% male). Results. (1) The reflective, social, and active aspects of selfimage were the most pronounced among modern young people, indicating a desire for self-reflection in the search for personal identity, a need for self-realization, and an active involvement in communities that promote prosocial values and create conditions for self-discovery and self-realization. (2) Most modern young people demonstrated a balanced time perspective, dominated by a future-oriented focus and by indicators of a ‘positive past’ and a ‘hedonistic present’, which indicates a sense of purpose and a sense of place in the future, while also revealing a focus on pleasure that may increase the tendency towards risky behavior and reduce responsibility for one’s actions. (3) Significant correlations were found between self-image parameters and time perspective, contributing to the development of a positive attitude towards oneself and one’s resources, effective social integration, and an active subjective position.