n.1. the direction of conscious attention on oneself and one’s thoughts, needs, desires, and emotions. Trait self-focus refers to a chronic habit or pattern of self-consciousness, whereas state self-focus refers to objective self-awareness. An excess of trait self-focus has been associated with the development of, or with heightened vulnerability to, several mental health disorders, such as alcohol abuse, depression, and anxiety diorders. Also called self-focused attention. 2. the capacity of an individual to analyze and evaluate his or her mental and emotional states. 3. excessive concern for the self and its needs: selfishness. —self-focusedadj.