IGNOU FREE BPCG-175 Psychology for Living Solved Guess Paper 2025

Q1. Explain the concept of Psychology and Self. How does psychology help us understand the development of self?

Psychology is the scientific study of human behaviour, mental processes, emotions and interpersonal functioning. One of its central concerns is the understanding of the self, which includes a person’s identity, personality, thoughts, feelings, attitudes and perceptions about themselves. The “self” is not a fixed entity; it continuously evolves through experiences, relationships and reflections. Psychology explains how self-awareness develops from childhood to adulthood through processes such as social learning, cognitive development and emotional maturation. As individuals interact with family, peers, school and society, they internalize feedback, expectations and values, which shape their self-concept. Theories by William James, Mead, Rogers and Erikson highlight how self-esteem, self-image, and personal identity emerge from life experiences. Psychology helps us understand why some individuals develop strong, confident selves while others struggle with insecurity or identity conflicts.

Psychology also explains how internal processes such as motivation, perception, and emotion influence the functioning of the self. It shows how negative thinking, irrational beliefs, trauma, and dysfunctional environments distort the self’s growth. Through counselling, therapy and reflective exercises, psychology helps people understand their strengths, weaknesses, desires and fears. It teaches them to become more aware of their behaviour patterns, emotional triggers and coping strategies. This self-awareness leads to healthier self-regulation, improved relationships and greater mental well-being. In this way, psychology helps individuals develop a stable, resilient, authentic self capable of leading a meaningful and fulfilling life.

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Q2. Discuss the correlates of self—self-esteem, self-efficacy, and self-regulation. How do these components influence behaviour?

Self-esteem refers to the value people place on themselves. It is shaped by success, failures, relationships and internal beliefs. High self-esteem promotes confidence, motivation and emotional stability, whereas low self-esteem contributes to anxiety, withdrawal and negative thinking. Self-efficacy, a concept developed by Albert Bandura, refers to a person’s belief in their ability to perform specific tasks or achieve goals. Individuals with high self-efficacy see challenges as opportunities for growth, while those with low self-efficacy avoid difficult situations. Self-regulation is the ability to control impulses, manage emotions, delay gratification and adopt healthy habits. Together, these three correlates form the foundation of a healthy personality and effective functioning.

These components strongly influence behaviour across all aspects of life. A person with high self-esteem and high self-efficacy is more likely to take initiative, persist through setbacks and engage in goal-directed behaviour. Self-regulation helps individuals manage stress, maintain discipline and develop resilience. Low levels of these traits can lead to maladjustment, poor decision-making and mental health issues. Psychological interventions often focus on strengthening these correlates to promote personal growth. Cognitive-behavioural strategies, mindfulness and positive psychology exercises help individuals challenge negative beliefs, build confidence and practice emotional control. Thus, self-esteem, self-efficacy and self-regulation are central to psychological well-being and successful living.

Q3. Explain the relationship between self, maladjustment and mental disorders. How does imbalance in self-processes lead to psychological problems?

Maladjustment occurs when an individual is unable to cope effectively with environmental demands and internal conflicts. The self plays a central role in adjustment because it guides how people interpret situations and respond emotionally. Distortions in self-concept—such as feelings of worthlessness, guilt, shame or inadequacy—can lead to anxiety disorders, depression and identity disturbances. When individuals cannot regulate emotions or maintain stable self-esteem, they experience intense emotional fluctuations, self-doubt and interpersonal conflicts. Poor self-concept also leads to avoidance, dependence, perfectionism or aggressive behaviour, all of which contribute to maladjustment. Psychological disorders often emerge when self-perceptions become overly rigid, unrealistic or negatively biased.

Furthermore, unresolved childhood experiences, trauma, social rejection and chronic stress damage the self-system, leading to dysfunctional coping patterns. Personality disorders such as borderline personality disorder involve an unstable and fragmented sense of self. Anxiety disorders arise from exaggerated self-threats, while depression involves negative self-beliefs and hopelessness. Therapy works by reconstructing the self—replacing irrational thoughts with more realistic beliefs, strengthening emotional regulation and building positive self-evaluations. Thus, maladjustment and mental disorders arise when the processes of self-understanding, acceptance and regulation are impaired, demonstrating that a healthy self is essential for psychological well-being.

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Q4. Describe the concept of positive growth. How does an individual move from maladjustment to positive functioning?

Positive growth refers to the development of psychological strengths such as resilience, optimism, emotional balance, creativity, purpose and self-determination. It involves moving beyond survival and distress toward flourishing and fulfilment. Positive growth requires self-awareness, self-acceptance and the ability to learn from life experiences. According to humanistic psychologists like Carl Rogers and Maslow, individuals achieve growth when they experience unconditional support, freedom of expression and opportunities for self-actualization. Growth does not mean the absence of problems but the ability to face challenges constructively. People grow when they adopt flexible thinking, develop coping skills and build meaningful relationships.

The movement from maladjustment to positive functioning involves transforming negative beliefs, reducing emotional reactivity and adopting healthy behaviour patterns. Psychological interventions such as counselling, mindfulness, cognitive restructuring and behavioural activation promote this transformation. Supportive environments—family, peers, teachers—enhance growth by providing encouragement and stability. As individuals gain confidence, emotional awareness and self-regulation, they begin to set goals, pursue interests and maintain fulfilling relationships. Positive growth also involves cultivating gratitude, empathy and compassion, which enrich personal and social well-being. Thus, the journey from maladjustment to flourishing is a dynamic psychological process shaped by both internal strengths and external support.

Q5. Explain the role of psychology in facilitating positive growth across the life span.

Psychology plays a crucial role in promoting positive growth throughout life—from childhood to old age. During childhood, psychology supports cognitive, emotional and social development through play, learning and secure attachment. In adolescence, psychology helps individuals navigate identity formation, peer pressure and emotional fluctuations. For adults, psychology aids in managing work stress, relationships, decision-making and personal fulfilment. Across all ages, psychological principles strengthen resilience, problem-solving, self-regulation and adaptability. By understanding developmental changes at each stage, psychology provides age-appropriate strategies to support growth.

Later in life, psychology helps individuals cope with retirement, loneliness, health challenges and changes in social roles. It promotes healthy ageing by encouraging mental stimulation, emotional stability and social involvement. Positive psychology emphasizes gratitude, mindfulness, purpose and emotional well-being, which contribute to lifelong growth. Therapy, counselling and mental health education equip individuals with tools to handle stress, trauma and transitions effectively. Thus, psychology enables continuous personal development by enhancing strengths, reducing limitations and creating meaningful, satisfying lives at every stage of human development.

Q6. Explain the concept of Emotional Intelligence and its role in healthy adjustment.

Emotional Intelligence (EI) refers to the ability to perceive, understand, express, manage and regulate one’s own emotions as well as those of others. According to Daniel Goleman, EI includes components such as self-awareness, self-regulation, empathy, motivation and social skills. Emotionally intelligent individuals are able to recognise their emotional triggers, manage anger or anxiety, express feelings appropriately and interpret others’ emotions accurately. EI plays a crucial role in decision-making because emotions influence thought processes and interpersonal behaviour. Individuals with high EI handle stress effectively, maintain stable relationships, resolve conflicts smoothly and adapt to changing circumstances. EI also enhances self-esteem and resilience because it allows individuals to evaluate situations rationally rather than react impulsively.

The role of EI in healthy adjustment is significant because adjustment requires emotional balance, flexibility and interpersonal competence. People with high EI cope better with frustration, failure and uncertainty. They remain calm under pressure, communicate clearly and seek constructive solutions during conflicts. EI strengthens social connections by fostering empathy, trust and compassion. In workplaces and families, emotionally intelligent people create supportive environments and maintain harmony. Moreover, EI protects mental health by reducing negative emotional patterns such as rumination, anger, and chronic stress. Since life challenges demand both emotional and cognitive adaptation, EI serves as a bridge that transforms emotional reactions into productive behaviour. Thus, emotional intelligence is a foundational skill for successful adaptation, mental well-being and personal growth.

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Q7. Discuss the role of coping strategies in managing stress and improving well-being.

Coping strategies are the cognitive and behavioural efforts people use to manage stress, difficult emotions and demanding situations. Lazarus and Folkman identified two major types of coping: problem-focused coping, which involves taking action to address the stressor, and emotion-focused coping, which reduces emotional distress when the situation cannot be changed. Problem-focused coping includes planning, seeking information, time management and problem-solving. Emotion-focused coping includes relaxation, mindfulness, acceptance, emotional expression, and seeking social support. Another category, meaning-focused coping, helps individuals find purpose and positivity even during adversity. Effective coping reduces physiological stress responses, improves emotional balance and enhances the ability to think clearly. People who use adaptive coping strategies experience less burnout, anxiety and depression.

Coping strategies directly contribute to well-being by enhancing resilience and promoting a sense of control over life challenges. Adaptive coping—such as exercise, journaling, therapy, and communication—helps individuals maintain physical health and emotional stability. In contrast, maladaptive coping—such as denial, withdrawal, substance use or aggression—intensifies stress and causes long-term problems. Successful coping improves interpersonal relationships because individuals respond with patience, clarity and emotional maturity. It also strengthens self-efficacy, as overcoming challenges increases personal confidence. By integrating healthy coping techniques into daily life, individuals develop long-term psychological well-being, improved mental endurance and a more positive orientation toward life.

Q8. What is Self-actualization? Discuss its characteristics and importance in personal growth.

Self-actualization, a concept introduced by Abraham Maslow, refers to the realization of an individual’s highest potential and the fulfilment of their innate talents and capacities. It represents the peak of psychological development in Maslow’s hierarchy of needs. Self-actualized individuals exhibit qualities such as creativity, autonomy, authenticity, problem-solving ability, and moral sensitivity. They have a strong sense of purpose and are guided by inner values rather than external expectations. They are open to new experiences, comfortable with their imperfections and capable of deep appreciation for life. Maslow described self-actualization as a continuous journey, not a fixed endpoint, where individuals strive to become the best version of themselves.

Self-actualization is essential for personal growth because it encourages individuals to move beyond basic survival toward meaningful living. It promotes emotional maturity, enhances self-esteem and supports healthy social relationships. Self-actualized individuals experience psychological freedom and fulfilment, making them more resilient to stress and adversity. They contribute positively to society because their motivation arises from compassion, creativity and moral responsibility. The pursuit of self-actualization encourages continuous learning, self-reflection and improvement. It leads to a balanced life wherein individuals align their behaviour with their values and aspirations. Thus, self-actualization serves as both a goal and a guiding philosophy for lifelong growth and psychological well-being.

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Q9. Describe the importance of interpersonal relationships in healthy living and psychological well-being.

Interpersonal relationships play a vital role in emotional stability, mental health and overall well-being. Humans are social beings who seek attachment, belongingness and communication. Healthy relationships provide emotional support, security, trust and companionship. They help individuals manage stress and protect against loneliness, depression and anxiety. Positive relationships enhance self-esteem and offer a sense of identity and acceptance. Through interactions with family, friends, partners and colleagues, individuals learn empathy, cooperation, conflict resolution and emotional expression. Supportive relationships also provide motivation and encouragement during difficult times, contributing to resilience and life satisfaction.

Interpersonal relationships influence physical health as well. Individuals with strong social support systems exhibit better immunity, lower blood pressure and reduced risk of chronic illnesses. Relationships promote healthy behaviours such as exercise, self-care and adherence to medical advice. Conversely, conflict-ridden relationships lead to stress, sleep disturbances and emotional exhaustion. Psychological theories such as attachment theory emphasize how early bonds shape lifelong emotional patterns and relational abilities. Investing in healthy communication, boundaries, empathy and mutual respect strengthens relationships and enhances emotional well-being. Therefore, nurturing positive interpersonal relationships is essential for a happy, meaningful and psychologically balanced life.

Q10. Discuss how positive psychology contributes to happiness, resilience, and life satisfaction.

Positive psychology is the scientific study of human strengths, virtues and factors that enable individuals to thrive. Instead of focusing only on illness and dysfunction, positive psychology emphasizes well-being, happiness, optimism, gratitude and personal growth. It identifies practices such as mindfulness, positive thinking, goal-setting, kindness and gratitude as tools for enhancing mental health. Positive emotions broaden cognitive abilities, improve creativity and strengthen coping skills. According to Fredrickson’s broaden-and-build theory, positive emotions help build long-term psychological resources such as resilience, social bonds and personal strength. Happiness is not merely the absence of distress but the presence of fulfilment, purpose and emotional richness, all of which positive psychology encourages.

Positive psychology also strengthens resilience—the ability to recover from adversity. By cultivating optimism, gratitude, hope and self-efficacy, individuals become better equipped to handle life challenges. Positive relationships and social support enhance resilience by providing emotional and practical strength. Positive psychology interventions, such as expressing gratitude, practising mindfulness and identifying personal strengths, increase life satisfaction and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. These practices help individuals focus on what is meaningful, develop emotional balance and build habits that support long-term well-being. In this way, positive psychology serves as a pathway to a fulfilling, purposeful and psychologically healthy life.

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