This study examines the concepts of self, selfhood, identity, and personality, focusing particularly on the developmental, social, and psychodynamic foundations of the phenomenon of false self. While the earliest psychological explanations of selfhood are based on William James, comprehensive approaches to self development are based on theorists such as Rogers, Winnicott, and Giddens. Attachment styles, early childhood experiences, parental attitudes, and social environment play a significant role among the key factors influencing self development.

The false self is defined as a superficial, compliant, and often defensive structure that individuals develop to conform to social expectations or protect themselves, and which cannot connect with their true self. This structure has been linked to the influence of the media, excessive parental control, unmet emotional needs, narcissistic patterns, and identity crises in modern life. While the literature shows that the false self often leads to psychological problems, relational superficiality, and internal fragmentation, it also shows that under the right conditions, the true self can be activated and the individual's identity integrity can be rebuilt.

Jung's concept of the shadow and sociological approaches to the mask show that the false self can have not only negative but also functional aspects. It can sometimes facilitate social adaptation, help protect oneself in difficult situations, or serve as a necessary mask.