A MODEL OF SELF-ESTEEM OF YOUNG ADOLESCENTS
Abstract
A model predicting levels of self-esteem (SE) in adolescents was constructed utilizing variables based on both existing research and statistical procedures. Variables in the model were measures of structural antecedents, parenting practices, and the adolescents' perceptions of home life. A sample of young (12 to 14) adolescents enrolled in 4-H clubs in the greater Indianapolis, Indiana, area was used to test the model. Multiple regression analysis tested the usefulness of the model. In general, the model proved to be valid as measured by high adjusted R square values. These values were .49 for the total sample, .37 for males only, and .60 for females only. The model was more accurate in predicting levels of SE in females. Variables measuring structural antecedents (type of community, family size, age, sex, and sibling position) and parenting practices (reward and punishment behaviors employed by the father and mother) did not account for a significant amount of the variance but were included in the model to act as controls for the intervening variables. Variables with significant betas were measures of the adolescent's perceptions of family life. These variables measured perceptions of a good home life (beta = .38), mother's knowledge of her child's friends (beta = .36), perception of mother's evaluation (beta = .36), parental encouragement if the child receives a poor report card (beta = .26), and interpersonal distance (beta = .18). This study confirms the importance of the family and home life in the adolescent's development of SE. Adolescents who feel positive about their family life also feel positive about their self worth.
Degree
Ph.D.
Subject Area
Families & family life|Personal relationships|Sociology
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