In PSY 103, we’re beginning a study of “self” words, including self-esteem. I thought it might be interesting to cite the definition given in the text (Reece & Brandt) and ask you to respond to it. Is it true? Does it affect our choices, and if so, how? Does it influence how we see the world and our place it in? Again, how? In other words, read the definition of this powerful concept and react to it. You might consider including a specific example of how it applies to your life.
“Our level of self-esteem affects virtually everything we think, say, and do. It affects how we see the world and our place in it. It affects how others in the world see and treat us. It affects the choices we make-choices about what we will do with our lives and with whom we will be involved. It affects our ability to both give and receive love. And, it affects our ability to take action to change things that need to be changed.”
Do you agree or disagree with the above? Just how important is healthy self-esteem?
We're psychology instructors (Jayne, Mark, Myles, Katie-in order of our being hired) at a community/technical college who are energized and excited by psychology and its applications to daily life. After all, what's the point of knowing about synapses unless the knowledge improves your understanding of moods, disorders, and memory (to name a few).
We've found that just about everything relates in some form or fashion to the science of human behavior, and it's our goal to help others to see that. Accordingly, we'll be posting opinions, comments, and questions and hoping that you'll respond. We'll also provide links to relevant articles and websites to further increase your knowledge
4 responses so far ↓
Jennifer Pearson // November 24, 2009 at 12:54 am
I agree with the statement. The way we look at ourselves is definitely reflected in what we do, how we do it, and the things we say. If someone has a very strong, outspoken personality, they are more likely to stand up for themselves than someone who thinks negatively of themselves. A person with low self-esteem may think to react, but be too shy or quiet or even afraid just because of ‘how they are’. If you take a person with high self-esteem and put them in a position where they must make a speech, I would guess them to be more likely to speak than someone with a low self-esteem. Confidence being one aspect, and just not knowing what to say being another. Being put in certain positions may help or hinder people’s choices when faced with certain delimmas.
Ashleigh Plute // June 17, 2009 at 3:49 am
Self-esteem is the most important factor in every person’s life. It makes you who you are! Children are affected the most with this problem. Kids are easily influenced and believe anything. Some kids are so mean and they bully everyone around them…which is very sad. I can personally attest to this. Living in New Mexico for 5 years was the best years of my life. Being a kid and the new kid to the school you are so scared…you’re afraid of what everyone is going to say. But, i had nothing to worry about! The environment around the school was awesome! No one picked on anybody. But, when I moved back to Sumter, i was constantly picked on and put down. I absolutely hated school. I tried whatever i could to stay away from there. So, i completely understand that kids are at the center of this situation. Everyone needs to build children up to be the best that they can be no matter their downfalls. I have learned over my high school years that everyone is beautiful! You need to make sure that you tell yourself everyday that you are worth something. This world would be a lot better place if everyone made it a point to make a positive compliment to someone. That way they are uplifted and feel good about themselves. Wouldn’t you love that?
Yes, yes, yes, I love the idea of making it a point to make a positive comment to someone everyday. Let's do it!About your school experiences, what do you think the difference was? Was it because you were older and at a more vulnerable stage? Was the school in NM more homogenuous?
sheri hannibal // June 8, 2009 at 5:16 pm
Self-esteem is what gives us the strenght to love ourself. Healthy self- esteem is great because if u feel good about yourself u can accomplish anything u want. stand tall, walk proud, and be happy to be in your own skin!!!!!
Ditto to that! Now if we could only figure out a way to give every child a big dose of it....henry page // June 5, 2009 at 11:26 am
self esteem, in my opinion is the most important aspect of ones personality. we have to be able to view ourselves in a positive manner in order to accomplish the most simple of tasks. The main thing is for all of us to remember to have good self opinions, many of us get caught up in what everyone else thinks about us and that can end up being a true hurdle that we will have to jump. overall i think self esteem is what ends up driving you as a person, i think its the essence of what kind of person you are going to be…..a follower or a leader. when you see yourself in a positive manner your not afraid to extend yourself outside of your comfort zone and really start to make connections with the “real world” . outside opinions help us to better ourselves as people but we must always remeber to never lose ourselves when given some negative feedback. the only way to build a stronger self esteem is to be openminded to the critics but you have to look at it as a building tool. in other words don’t ever let anyone make you hold your head low and question your self worth.
Your positive self-image shines through clearly. Love it! I wish more people could somehow realize their beauty, individuality, strength, and ability.