How can goal setting affect patients’ perception of themselves?

Goal setting can significantly enhance patients' perceptions of themselves by reinforcing their self-worth. When patients set achievable and meaningful goals, they experience a sense of purpose and direction in their lives. Achieving these goals can lead to feelings of accomplishment and competence, which directly contribute to a positive self-image.

Moreover, the process of setting and striving toward goals helps patients recognize their abilities and strengths. This acknowledgment fosters a more empowered self-concept, encouraging them to take pride in their capabilities and resilience. Additionally, when patients can see tangible progress toward their goals, it builds their confidence, further solidifying their belief in their self-worth.

The other options, while they represent potential outcomes of the goal-setting process, do not capture the overall positive impact that effective goal setting can have on a person's self-concept. Heightened anxiety and confusion of priorities can occur if goals are set unrealistically or if there is a lack of clarity, and disappointment can arise from unmet goals. However, when approached correctly, goal setting generally serves to bolster self-esteem and promote a healthier self-concept.