A study of achievement and self-esteem among Black American adults in greater Muskegon, Michigan
Abstract
This paper examines the multi-dimensionality of self-esteem and places emphasis upon the role of achievement. Using a Black studies orientation, three dimensions of self-esteem are investigated: (1) the association between achievement and self-esteem, (2) the sources of achievement information, and (3) the cognitive processing of achievement information. Data for this study was obtained through interviewing a stratified sample of Black American adult residents of a small Midwestern city, Muskegon, Michigan. The analysis of the data suggests that: productive achievements are a better predictor of self-esteem than social achievements; social comparison groups are primarily used to evaluate productive achievements; social comparison groups tend to be multi-racial; external explanations of achievements occur with the same frequency as internal explanations of achievements; the higher the level of achievement, the more likely a positive value will be attached to the achievement; and social achievements are generally more salient to one's self-concept than productive achievements and ascribed social characteristics.
Degree
Ph.D.
Advisors
Stahl, Purdue University.
Subject Area
Minority & ethnic groups|Sociology|African Americans
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