What does "self-discrepancy theory" emphasize?

Self-discrepancy theory focuses on the differences between an individual's actual self, which is their perceived traits and characteristics, and their ideal self, which represents their aspirations and what they would like to be. This gap is crucial because it can cause feelings of dissatisfaction, disappointment, and low self-esteem when one's actual self falls short of the ideal self. The theory suggests that individuals are motivated to reduce this discrepancy to achieve greater personal satisfaction and emotional well-being. By understanding this theory, one can recognize how striving towards one's ideal self can impact motivation and behavior.

The other options pertain to different psychological concepts that do not directly address the core idea of self-discrepancy theory. For instance, self-esteem and social perceptions relate more broadly to social psychology, societal norms and personal values address social conflicts, and self-identity reflecting cultural background concerns social identity theory rather than self-discrepancy.