Module 2

Self-Esteem

  • Definition of Self-Esteem

    • Evaluation of one's own worth, can be positive or negative.

    • Positive self-esteem: Valuation that is pleasing and acceptable.

    • Negative self-esteem: Feelings of being distraught or unaccepted.

  • Factors Influencing Self-Esteem

    • Completion of important tasks or feeling valued by others can enhance self-esteem.

    • Self-esteem reflects a sense of worth, not superiority over others (Diener & Lucas, 2017).

    • Fluctuates based on daily life situations and personal perceptions.

  • Measurement of Self-Esteem

    • Can be tested explicitly and implicitly.

    • The Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale is a common explicit measure; higher scores indicate higher self-esteem.

Self-Efficacy

  • Definition of Self-Efficacy

    • Belief in one's ability to succeed and perform well in various life areas (Syrett, 2020).

    • Distinct from self-esteem; self-efficacy focuses on specific goals and outcomes.

  • Influences on Self-Efficacy (Albert Bandura's Ideas)

    • Performance Experiences: Success in achieving goals boosts confidence; failure can diminish it.

    • Vicarious Performances: Observing others succeed can enhance belief in one's own abilities.

    • Verbal Persuasion: Encouragement or discouragement from others affects self-efficacy, depending on the person's significance.

    • Imaginal Performances: Visualizing success can lead to actual success.

    • Affective States & Physical Sensations: Emotional and physical states can impact self-efficacy; positive states lead to positive outcomes.

Self and Identity

  • Concept of Self

    • William James: "The self is what happens when I reflect upon ME."

    • Taylor: The self as a Reflective Project, influenced by various factors.

  • Categories of Self-Reflection (Dan McAdams)

    1. Self as Social Actor: Adapting behavior for social acceptance based on audience.

    2. Self as Motivated Agent: Acting based on personal dreams and goals, often self-conceptualized.

    3. Self as Autobiographical Author: Creating one's life story, influenced by past experiences and future aspirations.

Judgment and Decision Making

  • Decision-Making Process

    • Individuals often rely on intuition and available information, which can hinder wise decision-making (Jhangiani, 2020).

    • Critical thinking is recommended for better judgment.

  • Common Decision-Making Biases

    • Over-reliance on instincts and biased data entry into decision-making processes.

  • Rational Decision-Making Steps (Bazerman & Moore, 2013)

    1. Define the Problem: Identify the most desired course.

    2. Identify Criteria: List factors to consider (e.g., location, facilities).

    3. Weight the Criteria: Rank the importance of each criterion.

    4. Generate Alternatives: List the accepted schools.

    5. Rate Each Alternative: Evaluate each school against the criteria.

    6. Compute the Optimal Decision: Make a well-informed choice based on ratings.