The Importance of Self-Reflection and Awareness for Human Development in Hard Times

Abstract

Trauma is an inescapable part of being human, whether caused by external events or internal struggles. Self-reflection and self-awareness aid in the recovery from external trauma and heal psychosomatic wounds. We first explain different understandings of the nature of the self and mechanisms of self-reflection and self-awareness. Then we describe the role of self-reflection and awareness in ontogenetic, sociogenic, liberative, transpersonal, and spiritual models of adult development. Finally, we discuss the practice of Buddhist mindfulness, Westernized forms of mindfulness, and McMindfulness and their potential for raising the level of self-awareness, increase resilience during hard times, and heal from trauma.