In psychology, the term self-esteem is used to describe a person's overall sense of self-worth or personal value. Self-esteem is often seen as a personality trait, which means that it tends to be stable and enduring. Self-esteem can involve a variety of beliefs about the self, such as the appraisal of one's own appearance, beliefs, emotions and behaviors.
According to one definition (Braden, 1969), there are three key components of self-esteem:
1. Self-esteem is an essential human need that is vital for survival and normal, healthy development.
2. Self-esteem arises automatically from within based upon a person's beliefs and consciousness.
3. Self-esteem occurs in conjunction with a person's thoughts, behaviors, feelings and actions.
Explanation:
Sense of personal worth and ability that is fundamental to an individual's identity. Family relationships during childhood are believed to play a crucial role in its development. Parents may foster self-esteem by expressing affection and support for the child as well as by helping the child set realistic goals for achievement instead of imposing unreachably high standards.Karen Horney asserted that low self-esteem leads to the development of a personality that excessively craves approval and affection and exhibits an extreme desire for personal achievement. According to Alfred Adler's theory of personality, low self-esteem leads people to strive to overcome their perceived inferiorities and to develop strengths or talents in compensation.
Relationship between drug and alcohol abuse and self-esteem:
KEEGAN, 1987--Low self-esteem either causes or contributes to neurosis, anxiety, defensiveness, and ultimately alcohol and drug abuse.
MILLER, 1988--Demonstrated that a program to increase self-esteem significantly changed the attitudes of students regarding their alcohol and drug use.
Relationship between school dropouts and self-esteem:
KITE, 1989--Found that of seven major factors