Self Esteem

Development of self concept

• Developed over childhood
- based on individualized experiences
- begins with achievement of Trust & Autonomy, further
supported through attainment of Sense of Initiative, & Identity
formation
- Important factor in the development of relationships with
significant others (as friend, intimate partner, employee,
member of society in general!)
• Two Vital Components
1. Body Image
2. Self-Esteem

Body image

Perceptions & attitudes of ones own body

• Largely influenced on external
environment
- Family, culture, media, social norms
• Having a healthy and positive body
image means liking your body,
appreciating it, and being grateful
for its qualities and capabilities.

Physiologic body image

Physical characteristics

Psychological body image

Ability & ideals

Social body image

Self in relation to others

Recipe for healthy self esteem

Does NOT occur by telling kids they're wonderful, special, perfect, etc.. Giving every
child a trophy doesn't help kids' self-esteem. Indeed, it's possible for kids to feel
good about themselves even when they fail.
• Self-esteem is the result of experiences that help a child feel capable, effective, and accepted.

Capable

When kids learn to do things for themselves and feel proud of what they can do

Effective

When they see that good things come from efforts like trying hard, getting close to a goal, or making progress.

Accepted

Wanted and understood by a parent or someone close through realistic praise for good behavior / helping when needed, and giving encouragement and support.

Self assessment based on

Feelings of competence

Sense of control

Moral worth

Worthiness of love & acceptance

Influenced by opportunities for achievement and meaningful relationships

Feelings of competence

how adequate are my skills?”

Sense of control

“how well can I complete tasks to produce desired actions?”

Moral worth

“how closely to my actions and behaviors meet moral standards that have been set?”

Worthiness of love & acceptance

“how worthy am I of love and acceptance from
parents, sig. others, peers, siblings

Parent strategies to help develop healthy self esteem

• Help the child learn to do things.
• When teaching kids how to do things, show and help them at first.
Then let them do what they can, even if they make mistakes. Offer many opportunities to learn, try, and feel proud. Don't make new challenges too easy — or too hard.
• Be a good role model. Children will watch the effort, attitude, and pride put into everyday tasks.
• Ban harsh criticism.
• Focus on strengths. Give child opportunity to develop strengths
• Praise:
- Avoid over-praising
- Praise effort rather than fixed qualities.