Development of self-esteem and self-efficacy

Dyslexia, a learning disorder that affects the acquisition of reading and writing skills, can have a significant impact on the self-esteem and self-efficacy of children and adolescents.

In this session, we will explore how these aspects develop in the context of dyslexia, identify common challenges, and offer effective strategies to foster a positive sense of self and confidence in one's own abilities.

Understanding Self-Esteem and Self-Efficacy

Self-esteem refers to the value and perception an individual has of themselves, while self-efficacy relates to the belief in one's personal ability to face and overcome challenges. Both aspects are fundamental to emotional well-being and the positive development of children and adolescents.

Children and adolescents with dyslexia often face challenges that can negatively impact their self-esteem and self-efficacy:

• Comparison with Peers: Difficulties in reading and writing can lead to negative comparisons with classmates, generating feelings of inferiority.

• Frustration and Demotivation: The constant struggle with academic tasks can generate frustration and demotivation, affecting the perception of personal competence.

• Stigma and Stereotypes: Lack of understanding about dyslexia can lead to stigma and stereotypes, contributing to a negative self-image.

• Social Impact: Difficulties in reading aloud or writing can affect social interactions, generating anxiety and reducing participation in group activities.

Fostering Self-Esteem

Fostering self-esteem in children and adolescents with dyslexia involves adopting specific strategies that reinforce a positive sense of self:

• Celebrate Individual Achievements: Highlighting and celebrating individual achievements, even small ones, reinforces the feeling of personal competence.

• Focus on Strengths: Identifying and highlighting individual strengths, whether in academic areas or in particular talents and skills, contributes to a positive self-image.

• Promote Authenticity: Fostering an environment where young people feel safe being authentic and accepting their differences helps build self-esteem based on personal acceptance.

• Involve in Decisions: Allowing children and adolescents to participate in decision-making related to their education and daily life gives them a sense of control and contributes to self-esteem.

Developing Self-Efficacy

Self-efficacy, the belief in one's own ability to achieve goals and overcome challenges, can also be cultivated in various ways:

• Set Realistic Goals: Helping young people set realistic and achievable goals contributes to developing confidence in their abilities.

• Provide Gradual Challenges: Gradually exposing children and adolescents to challenges that match their current abilities and allow them to experience success increases self-efficacy.

• Provide Constructive Feedback: Offering constructive and specific feedback on performance helps young people understand their strengths and areas for improvement, contributing to the building of self-efficacy.

• Model Resilience: Modeling resilience in the face of challenges and mistakes demonstrates that it is normal to face difficulties and that it is possible to overcome them, strengthening belief in one's own ability.

Involvement of Parents and Educators

Parents and educators play a crucial role in the development of self-esteem and self-efficacy in children and adolescents with dyslexia:

• Open Communication: Fostering open and receptive communication creates a space where young people feel comfortable expressing their concerns and receiving support.

• Collaboration on Goals: Collaborating in defining goals and action plans, both academically and personally, reinforces the feeling of support and encouragement.

• Provide Structured Support: Providing structured support, whether through adapted pedagogical strategies or technological tools, contributes to the perception that their challenges are recognized and addressed.

• Encourage Participation: Encouraging participation in extracurricular and social activities promotes the building of social skills and contributes to comprehensive development.

Education about Dyslexia and Reducing Stigma

Education about dyslexia, both for the young people themselves and for their peers, is essential to reduce stigma and promote acceptance:

• Awareness in the School Environment: Promoting awareness programs in the school environment helps create a more understanding and accepting atmosphere.

• Promote Self-Advocacy: Teaching children and adolescents strategies to advocate for themselves, such as explaining their dyslexia and requesting reasonable accommodations, strengthens their self-advocacy skills.

• Model Positive Attitudes: Modeling positive attitudes towards dyslexia contributes to changing perceptions and fosters a more inclusive environment.