Low self-esteem is a prevalent psychological phenomenon that has the potential to impact individuals across various ages and diverse backgrounds. The condition is marked by an adverse self-perception, diminished sense of self-value, and an inadequate level of assurance. The present essay endeavours to investigate the origins and repercussions of low self-esteem alongside methods for enhancing it within one's daily existence. 

Negative experiences during childhood, including mistreatment, omission or harassment, are principal contributing factors towards diminishing one's self-esteem in many situations. Moreover, social comparisons, improbable aspirations, and cultural norms exert a significant influence on an individual's self-regard, leading to the development of diminished self-esteem. The persistence of low self-esteem can be attributed to unfavourable self-dialogue and inadequate self-nurture. 

The ramifications of reduced self-regard can extend beyond the immediate and have the potential to adversely influence diverse facets of an individual's existence. The manifestation of social withdrawal, obstruction in forming and preserving relationships, and poor academic or vocational performance can be attributed to this phenomenon. Additionally, it is worthwhile to note that it has the potential to exert a significant role in the emergence and exacerbation of mental health illnesses, such as depression and anxiety. 

Fortunately, a variety of techniques exist that individuals can employ in their daily lives to enhance their self-esteem. The adoption of various helpful strategies such as engaging in self-care and self-compassionate practices, establishing achievable goals and expectations, countering pessimistic self-address, as well as securing assistance from trustworthy individuals or mental health specialists constitute measures that can be employed to promote psychological well-being. It is imperative to acknowledge and recognize individual strengths and achievements. 

Consequently, it is worth emphasizing that low self-esteem presents itself as a prevalent psychological challenge with pronounced adverse implications on one's personal well-being. The underlying etiology of this phenomenon is multifaceted, encompassing a variety of contributing factors such as adverse childhood experiences, social comparisons, and pessimistic self-referential cognitions. Through the employment of effective methodologies and bolstering resources, the elevation of self-concept may be achievable and result in a personally satisfying existence.

One of the common causes and consequences of low self-esteem - how can it be improved in everyday life?

Scientific bibliography:

  1. Blascovich, J., & Tomaka, J. (1991). Measures of self-esteem. Measures of personality and social psychological attitudes, 1, 115-160.
  2. Dąbrowska-Bender, E. (2011). Samoocena i styl życia. Warszawa: Wydawnictwo Naukowe PWN.
  3. Florkowski, M. (2012). Samoocena w pracy i w życiu. Warszawa: Wydawnictwo C.H. Beck.
  4. Heatherton, T. F., & Wyland, C. L. (2003). Assessing self-esteem. Handbook of self and identity, 131-168.
  5. Neff, K. D., & Vonk, R. (2009). Self‐compassion versus global self‐esteem: two different ways of relating to oneself. Journal of personality, 77(1), 23-50.
  6. Orth, U., Robins, R. W., & Roberts, B. W. (2008). Low self-esteem prospectively predicts depression in adolescence and young adulthood. Journal of personality and social psychology, 95(3), 695-708.
  7. Rosenberg, M. (1965). Society and the adolescent self-image. Princeton University Press.

Important words to remember: 

  • low self-esteem, 
  • negative self-image, 
  • self-care, 
  • self-compassion, 
  • social comparisons, 
  • mental health disorders.