Self-Knowledge Accuracy and Psychological Adjustment: A Systematic Review

Abstract

The question of whether self-knowledge is linked to psychological adjustment requires nuanced consideration. Relevant theoretical frameworks pertain to domains of self-knowledge (ability, personality, social perceptions), types of self-knowledge (normative vs. profile), forms of psychological adjustment (intrapersonal vs. interpersonal), or interactions among these factors. In this systematic review, we outline these theoretical frameworks, specify their predicted pattern of association between self-knowledge and psychological adjustment, and evaluate the evidence. The findings do not support the frameworks: Across studies, self-knowledge was unassociated with psychological adjustment. A tentative exception was profile self-knowledge in the domain of social perceptions (knowing how others perceive one’s unique personality configuration), which showed some evidence of a positive association with interpersonal adjustment. Yet given the fragmented state of the literature, many untested constellations of self-knowledge and adjustment, and methodological limitations in the existing evidence, it would be premature to rule out that other forms of self-knowledge may be beneficial for specific adjustment outcomes. We propose a road map for future research, specifying the kinds of studies needed and highlighting methodological considerations crucial for moving the field forward.