Pyschology of High and Low Self Monitors
... ” With this thought in mind, I began to assess both strengths and shortcomings of high and low self monitors. As if dealing cards from an inexhaustible deck, high self-monitors can flip through a myriad of behaviors in order to adapt to the demands of the situation. A keen sense for presenting themselves in public situations, high self-monitors tend to have iron–clad control over their emotions, which when coupled with their inherent sense of occasion allows them adapt their behavior to guide along social interactions. The high self-monitor can skillfully conduct themselves and give cues to others for appropriate action in tense or uncertain situations, but in the same vein can easily manipulate those around them for personal gain and can compromise themselves simply to fit in. ... Always interested in the thoughts and feelings of those around them, high self-monitors can more easily understand and sympathize with their friends and relations. Similarly, whether they are sussing out a lie or sensing a friend is secretly distressed, high self-monitors are sensitive to uses of impression management. It seems that high self-monitoring is not inherently good or bad in itself, rather, such values can only be applied to the ends for which they use their understanding and flexibility. As if picking up where the high self-monitor leaves off, low self-monitors are consistent to a fault and always stand up for their thoughts and feelings regardless of the situation.