In the context of mental health, what does the term 'self-concept' refer to?

The term 'self-concept' refers to the comprehensive understanding that individuals have about themselves, which encompasses their beliefs, opinions, and perceptions regarding their identity. It includes various dimensions such as self-esteem, self-image, and self-worth. When someone has a strong and positive self-concept, they generally have a favorable view of themselves, which contributes to their overall mental health and well-being.

This understanding of self-worth, specifically, forms a crucial aspect of an individual's overall self-concept. It influences how they perceive their capabilities, emotions, and even how they interact with others in their environment. A robust self-concept can lead to greater resilience in the face of challenges, while a negative self-concept may predispose a person to mental health issues such as anxiety and depression.

The other options relate to different aspects of mental health but do not encapsulate the essence of 'self-concept'. For example, emotional states pertain more to mood and feelings, stress management relates to coping strategies, and cognitive abilities deal with intelligence and problem-solving capabilities. None of these directly address the fundamental understanding of oneself which is captured by the concept of self-worth within self-concept.