We propose a framework for conceptualizing different ways of representing concepts of the self. Dependent self-concepts are concepts that are defined by connections to concepts of other individuals; autonomous self-concepts do not depend upon other person concepts for their mental characterization. This distinction between ways of representing self-concepts is similar to the distinction between interrelated and isolated concepts recently proposed by Goldstone (1993a). In the present paper, the extant self literature is evaluated in terms of the dependent/autonomous distinction. Methods for manipulating and diagnosing self-concept dependence are also proposed. Results of three preliminary studies show that dependent self-concepts are represented at a lower level of trait abstraction than are autonomous ones. The former concepts also contain more diagnostic features than the latter. Discussion focuses on predictions about other differences in the processing of dependent and autonomous self-concepts. In addition, the conditions under which different types of self-concept might change, and the implications of dependent and autonomous self-concepts for self-esteem and mental health are considered.