Self-esteem refers to the perception, view or judgment a person makes about him or herself that affects his/her relationship with other people. It is the recognition of one’s qualities and it includes values, goals, talents, worth, physical make up and purpose in life.
TYPES OF SELF-ESTEEM
There are basically two types of self-esteem: High self-esteem and low-self esteem.
High self-esteem: This is a situation where a person attaches high sense of worth and value to him or herself. An individual with high self-esteem recognizes his or her own strength and skill and can accept and acknowledge successes and achievement. Such a person responds confidently to challenges and problem and practices positive thinking.
Low self-esteem: This is when a person experiences feeling of worthlessness, inadequacy, helplessness, inferiority, and a sense of being unable to improve his/her situation.
FACTORS THAT INFLUENCE SELF-ESTEEM
- The family as a primary agent of socialization affects the self esteem of member.
- The society: the norms of the society and where we fit in affects our self-esteem.
- Gender roles as defined by culture or law affects our self esteem.
- Mass media is a powerful factor that affects and shapes one’s self-esteem.
- Religious organizations and their teaching affect one’s self-esteem.
- The economic background or social class a person belongs to affects his self-esteem.
- Individual’s achievement is another factor that affects self-esteem.
HOW TO IMPROVE SELF-ESTEEM
- Accept yourself as you are.
- Identify your strength and weaknesses.
- Identify your values and behave according to them.
- Set realistic goals and strive to achieve them.
- Develop your abilities and be proud of them.
- Select realistic role models.
- Cultivate positive relationship.
- Be pleased with whom you are.
- Accept complements.