Self-esteem: personal assessment and functions

Self-esteem refers to a person's overall evaluation, both positive and negative, of themselves—that is, how much they value, like, or accept themselves.

It is a crucial component of self-concept that significantly influences emotional well-being and behavior.

Definition and Measurement

Self-esteem is the evaluative dimension of the self. It is not just about knowing one's own characteristics (self-concept), but also about making a value judgment about them.

It can be measured through self-report scales, where people indicate their degree of agreement with statements about their personal worth (for example, the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale).

It is important to distinguish between self-esteem as a stable trait (a general tendency to value oneself positively or negatively) and state-specific fluctuations in self-esteem (how we feel about ourselves at a particular time or situation).

Functions of Self-Esteem

Self-esteem serves several important psychological functions:

• Stress-Buffering Function: Healthy self-esteem can act as a buffer against the negative effects of stress and adversity. People with high self-esteem tend to be more resilient and recover more quickly from setbacks.

• Sociometric Function (Sociometer Theory): From this perspective, self-esteem functions as an internal indicator of our degree of social acceptance and inclusion. Feelings of low self-esteem could signal a threat to our social relationships, motivating us to seek greater connection or repair ties.

• Motivational Function: Self-esteem can influence the motivation to pursue goals and persistence in the face of challenges. A positive self-esteem assessment can foster a belief in one’s ability to succeed.

Benefits of Healthy Self-Esteem

Generally, high self-esteem is associated with a number of positive outcomes, including increased happiness, optimism, initiative, and a lower susceptibility to depression and anxiety.

People with healthy self-esteem tend to have more satisfying relationships and perform better in a variety of settings.

However, it’s crucial that this self-esteem is genuine and grounded, and not a narcissistic facade or a defense against deep-seated insecurities, as the latter can have negative consequences, as we’ll see when we explore the “dark side” of self-esteem.