Self-Esteem Flashcards
How is global self-esteem defined?
Global self-esteem is defined as “a certain average tone of self-feeling which each one of us carries about with him, independent of the objective reasons for satisfaction or discontent” (James, 1890).
What is James’ formula for self-esteem?
James’ formula for self-esteem suggests that self-feeling depends on what we back ourselves to be and do, and it can be increased by either reducing failure or increasing success. The formula is:
Self-esteem = Success / Pretensions.
What are self-discrepancies according to Higgins (1987)?
Self-discrepancies are the differences between various domains of the self:
- Actual self: Who we are
- Ideal self: Who we would like to be
- Ought self: Who we think we should be.
What is state self-esteem?
State self-esteem refers to temporary feelings of self-worth that fluctuate based on current experiences, such as feeling good or bad about oneself in the moment.
How do people with high implicit self-esteem typically respond?
People with high implicit self-esteem may:
- Associate positive words with themselves more quickly
- Show a preference for letters or numbers related to their name
- Associate negative words with themselves more slowly.
However, measures of implicit self-esteem show poor convergent validity (Bosson, Swann & Pennebaker, 2000).
What are the protective benefits of self-esteem?
Lower self-esteem in adolescence is linked to poorer mental and physical health, worse job prospects, and more criminal behavior in adulthood (Trzesniewki et al., 2006). Lower self-esteem also predicts depression, but not vice versa (Orth, Robins & Roberts, 2008).
How does self-esteem affect anxiety, according to Greenberg et al. (1992)?
Self-esteem acts as an anxiety buffer. High self-esteem helps reduce anxiety in response to threats such as reminders of mortality or painful situations.
What is the sociometer hypothesis?
The sociometer hypothesis suggests that self-esteem functions as a “sociometer” that monitors interpersonal relationships and motivates behaviors to maintain a minimum level of social acceptance (Leary & Baumeister, 2000).
What are predictors of global self-esteem?
Global self-esteem is influenced by domain-specific self-evaluations, with more important domains having a stronger correlation with global self-esteem (Harter, 1993).
How does culture influence self-esteem?
Culture affects the domains that are valued and the ways self-esteem is maintained or enhanced. For example, East Asian cultures may emphasize modesty and self-criticism, while Western cultures may emphasize self-enhancement (Heine et al., 1999).
What are “positive illusions” according to Taylor and Brown (1988)?
Positive illusions are unrealistically positive views of oneself, exaggerated perceptions of personal control, and unrealistic optimism. These illusions are associated with better mental health outcomes such as happiness, motivation, and creativity.
How does narcissism differ from high self-esteem?
Narcissism involves extreme or unstable high self-esteem, a strong desire for self-aggrandizement, and a disregard for others. High self-esteem, however, may be secure and stable (Baumeister, Smart & Boden, 1996).
How does narcissism relate to aggression?
Narcissism is associated with higher aggression, particularly when self-esteem is threatened. Narcissists are more likely to aggress against the source of the threat (Bushman & Baumeister, 1998).
What is optimal self-esteem according to Heppner & Kernis (2011)?
Optimal self-esteem is stable, congruent with one’s true self, and secure, as opposed to being contingent or defensive. It is associated with less defensiveness and greater well-being.
What are the benefits of boosting self-esteem?
Boosting self-esteem can improve social acceptance, buffer against anxiety, and promote positive psychosocial outcomes. However, boosting fragile or insecure self-esteem may lead to negative consequences (Kernis, Granneman, and Barclay, 1989).
