Self-esteem (W4, L3) Flashcards
What is self-esteem?
Your evaluation of your self worth based on all of your self-perceptions that make up your self-concept
Self-esteem is often framed as the question, ‘How good am I?’.
How does self-esteem change over the lifespan?
Self-esteem fluctuates over the lifespan, dipping from childhood through adolescence, rising during adult years, and dipping again in old age
Males tend to have higher self-esteem scores than females.
How does self-esteem vary across cultures?
Cross-culturally, self-esteem does not always follow the same pattern; for example, in Asian cultures, self-esteem is high in old age
This indicates cultural differences in the perception of self-worth.
What factors influence self-esteem?
- Behavioural conduct
- Athletic competence
- Physical appearance
- Scholastic competence
- Social acceptance
What are the influences on self-esteem in childhood?
- Hereditary
- Competence
- Social feedback
- Secure attachment
What is the ‘ideal self’ in childhood development?
The emergence of ‘ideal self’ occurs after infancy and before 8 years old, representing who children want to be
This concept influences their self-esteem.
How does self-esteem become multidimensional as children age?
Self-esteem becomes multidimensional and hierarchical, with some competencies placed as more important than others
For instance, athletic competence may be prioritized over behavioral conduct.
Why is it important to foster good self-esteem in children?
Self-esteem is generally stable; fostering a good sense of self-esteem sets children up for better self-esteem as they grow older.
What causes the reduction of self-esteem in adolescence?
Reduction in self-esteem is due to increased ability to be realistic, insecurity from changing schools, and changing bodies.
What is the ‘big fish little pond’ implication?
Gifted children may experience a reduction in self-esteem when they find themselves at the same level as peers in a competitive environment.
Why does self-esteem matter?
People with positive self-esteem tend to have more positive outcomes in life, do better academically and socially, and have generally better mental health.
What is social self-comparison?
Social self-comparison refers to the comparison made when viewing digitally altered images of oneself.
