Week 7 - Self-Esteem Flashcards
What is self-esteem and how can types of self-esteem differ?
Self-esteem is the subjective evaluation of one’s worth and value. Research by Rosenberg (1965) pioneered the understanding of self-esteem as a vital psychological construct. Types of self-esteem can differ based on conscious and unconscious evaluations. For instance, explicit self-esteem is reflected in statements like “I am confident,” while implicit self-esteem might manifest in automatic preferences for self-related stimuli in implicit association tests.
Why do we need self-esteem?
Self-esteem plays a crucial role in psychological well-being and functioning. Abraham Maslow’s hierarchy of needs posits self-esteem as a fundamental human need, essential for fulfilling higher-level needs like self-actualization. For instance, research by Jennifer Crocker and Lora Park (2004) suggests that self-esteem influences coping strategies during stressful situations, affecting mental health outcomes.
How can the pursuit of self-esteem have counter-intuitive or destructive consequences?
Baumeister et al. (2005) highlighted the dark side of self-esteem in their research. Excessive pursuit of self-esteem can lead to behaviors like social comparison, where individuals evaluate themselves based on others, often leading to envy or dissatisfaction. Moreover, studies by Roy Baumeister and colleagues (2003) demonstrated that individuals with inflated self-esteem may be more prone to aggression and less receptive to constructive criticism.
Does the need for self-esteem vary across cultures?
Cultural psychologist Hazel Markus and Shinobu Kitayama (1991) introduced the concept of independent vs. interdependent self-construal. In individualistic cultures like the US, self-esteem often focuses on personal achievements and individual traits. In contrast, collectivist cultures like Japan prioritize group harmony over personal goals, impacting the importance of self-esteem. For example, studies by Steven Heine and Darrin Lehman (1995) showed that Japanese participants exhibited lower levels of self-enhancement compared to their American counterparts.
In what ways do people differ in their response to self-esteem threat?
Research by Claude Steele (1988) introduced the concept of “self-affirmation theory.” When individuals face threats to their self-esteem, they may engage in strategies to restore it. Some may seek social support or engage in self-affirmation activities, such as reflecting on personal values or accomplishments. Others may resort to defensive mechanisms like denial or avoidance, depending on personality traits and situational factors.
How might people aim to pursue more healthy avenues of self-esteem?
Positive psychology interventions offer strategies for cultivating healthy self-esteem. For example, practicing self-compassion, as advocated by Kristin Neff (2003), involves treating oneself with kindness and understanding during times of failure or distress. Similarly, engaging in activities aligned with intrinsic values, as proposed by Deci and Ryan’s Self-Determination Theory (1985), fosters authentic self-esteem rooted in personal growth and fulfillment rather than external validation.
