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Is Self-Esteem Only Skin-Deep? The Inextricable Link between Physical Appearance and Self-Esteem
Abstract
This article discusses the gender differences in perceived physical appearance that contribute to problems such as depression and eating disorders. Ways are explored to help children and adolescents reject media messages and base their self-esteem on genuine qualities. (Author/MKA)
... They must be examined in concert. In comparison with men, women are often judged more on the basis of attractiveness (Harter 2000;Hunter 2002). As a result, lighter-toned Asian, Black, and Hispanic women who conform to Eurocentric images of beauty have potentially greater power, prestige, and social capital leading to improved labor market trajectories, marriage to higher-status men, and greater self-esteem (Browne and Misra 2003;Hill 2009). ...
... It also captures differential treatment that may stem from an individual's position in the social hierarchy within a race/ethnicity. Previous research has identified preferences for whiteness and Eurocentric features among every race/ethnic group and suggests these preferences may be particularly strong for females in every racial/ethnic group (Dixon and Telles 2017;Harter 2000). ...
... Despite studies that show variation in racial/ethnic disparities by gender, research on skin color and health has rarely evaluated differences between females and males. Scholarship suggests that darker color may be more socially disadvantageous for minority females than minority males in large part because females are judged more on the basis of their physical attributes while men are judged based on a wider spectrum of characteristics such as wealth, power and occupational status (Browne and Misra 2003;Keith and Herring 1991;Harter 2000). Racial/ethnic disparities across multiple measures of health (e.g., obesity, self-reported health, and depression) are similarly gendered, with greater disparities among females than males (Cummings and Jackson 2008;Flegal et al. 2012;Rosenfield and Mouzon 2013;Schulz and Mullings 2006). ...
Researchers typically identify health disparities using self-reported race/ethnicity, a measure identifying individuals’ social and cultural affiliations. In this study, we use data from Waves 1, 3, and 4 of Add Health to examine health disparities by interviewer-ascribed skin color, a measure capturing the perceptions of race/ethnicity ascribed to individuals by others. Individuals with darker-skin tones may face greater exposure to serious stressors such as perceived discrimination, poverty, and economic hardship which can accumulate over the lifecourse and increase the likelihood of poor health. We found significant gradients in Body Mass Index (BMI), obesity, self-reported health, and depressive symptoms by interviewer-ascribed skin color but results differed by gender. Associations of BMI, obesity, and fair/poor health among women were only partially mediated by discrimination, self-reported stress, or low socioeconomic status and persisted after controlling for race/ethnicity. Among men, initial associations between skin color and both fair/poor health and depressive symptoms did not persist after controlling for race/ethnicity. This study demonstrates the value of considering stratification by skin color and gender in conjunction with race/ethnicity.
... The significant relationship between body esteem and more global evaluations of self-worth has been established by research on individuals of all ages (Harter, 2012;Smolak, 2002). In her assessments of the relationships amongst various domains of selfesteem in children and adolescents, Susan Harter (2000) found that "at every developmental level, the evaluation of one's looks takes precedence over other domains as the Number 1 predictor of self-esteem" (p. 134). ...
... With a fragmented body image or a sense of the body as being ugly or disgusting, the self, too, is felt to be fragmented or ugly. Empirical research has repeatedly established the link between body esteem and self-esteem, illustrating the important role the body plays (at varying stages of development) in overall self-evaluation (Allen, Byrne, Blair, & Davis, 2006;Blond et al., 2008;Harter, 2000;Harter, 2012). ...
... Harter (2012) has found this powerful association between global self-esteem and appearance related self-esteem to be true in various studies of children and adolescents at every developmental stage. In addition, this relationship between self-esteem and body esteem is stronger for girls, and beginning in middle childhood (increasing throughout development) perceptions of physical appearance are more negative for girls than boys (Harter, 2000). ...
This paper outlines the research that has been conducted on the development of body image in young children, particularly in girls. Beginning with a detailed understanding of the developmental progression of body image, and its relationship to self-concept in early life, this review continues to explore the various theoretical perspectives on how body image and body esteem develop at young ages. The research from attachment theory and other psychoanalytic theories, social learning theory, and sociocultural perspectives are reviewed in detail. The review of this literature explains the multiple influential factors on body image and body satisfaction throughout the lifespan. This paper also highlights the need for more empirical research regarding the influence of early parent-child relationships on the full spectrum of body image dissatisfaction, which has become so prevalent amongst women and girls in Western society.
... Accordingly, the present study aimed at analyzing adolescents' emotional, cognitive and behavioral reactions as potential mediators between interparental conflict and several domains of adolescents' self-representations. Grounding on the theoretical framework presented above, we expected that higher levels of interparental conflict would predict increases in adolescent emotional insecurity, which, in turn, would predict less favorable self-representations. Additionally, basing on existing evidence on associations among interparental conflict, emotional insecurity and self-related outcomes presented above (e.g., Isabella & Diener, 2010;Siffert et al., 2012), it is expected to find associations between adolescent emotional insecurity and instrumental, intelligence, social, emotional, and opposition self-representations. Physical appearance self-representations, on the other hand, might at first sight seem little related to these emotional processes. However, physical appearance self-representations are a highly salient domain of self-concept in adolescence, with the highest correlations with adolescents' overall self-worth (Harter, 2000(Harter, , 2015. Furthermore, previous research has found significant positive associations between the perceived quality of relationships within the family and physical appearance self-concept in adolescents. ...
... Furthermore, previous research has found significant positive associations between the perceived quality of relationships within the family and physical appearance self-concept in adolescents. This evidence suggests that the perception of better relationships within the family can lead to the construction of a better physical self-image (Harter, 1993(Harter, , 2000(Harter, , 2015. Therefore, the realm of physical appearance should not be neglected in process oriented research on associations between interparental conflict and adolescents' self-representations via their emotional insecurity. ...
... As for the mediating role of emotional insecurity in associations between interparental conflict and physical appearance selfrepresentations, this finding gains increased interest, considering that this study was conducted with a sample of adolescents. Indeed, changes in physical appearance are one of the most visible kind of transformations during this developmental stage, and have important implications in how adolescents think of themselves (Harter, 2000(Harter, , 2015Martins, 2013). Their body image mirrors the quick transformations they undergo during this period, and, therefore, self-evaluations of body image are particularly relevant during this stage (Pruzinsky & Cash, 1990). ...
Adolescents' signs of emotional insecurity in the context of interparental conflict (IC) – emotional reactivity, internal representations (i.e., constructive/destructive; spillover) and behavioral responses (i.e., withdrawal; inhibition; involvement) – were examined as mediators in the relation between IC and adolescents' self-representations. Self-reported measures were filled out by 221 Portuguese adolescents (59.3% girls; Mage = 12.91), attending public elementary and secondary schools. IC predicted less favorable self-representations. Adolescents' emotional reactivity and withdrawal mediated the relation between IC and emotional and physical appearance self-representations, while conflict spillover representations and constructive family representations mediated associations between IC and instrumental self-representations. This study emphasizes the importance of interparental conflict and adolescent emotional insecurity in the construction of their self-representations, having important theoretical and practical implications. It highlights the value of analyzing the specific role of several emotional insecurity dimensions, and informs practitioners' work aimed at promoting constructive conflict and adaptive emotional regulation skills.
... This premise is supported by our findings in both studies showing that girls represented themselves as more likeable, friendly, caring and helpful than boys. Furthermore, as literature suggests (see Harter 2000), girls, particularly in adolescence, feel a greater social pressure towards their physical appearance. This pressure can lead to a less positive assessment of physical appearance in girls, as compared to boys. ...
... Namely, relationships with peers become increasingly important and intense, particularly regarding their personal skills evaluation (Harter and Monsour 1992). Also, given the deep modification occurring in the body with puberty, physical appearance changes are the most visible ones and have a great impact in how adolescents think of themselves (Harter 2000(Harter , 2015. Additionally, the acquisition of new cognitive skills, such as greater abstraction and introspection abilities (Fischer 1980;Higgins 1991) may have important consequences in their self-representations of intelligence. ...
... Changes in physical appearance are one of the most visible transformations that take place in adolescence, mirroring the several quick developmental changes inherent to growth, with important implications for adolescents' self-representation (Davison and McCabe 2006;Pruzinsky and Cash 1990). In addition, perceptions of physical appearance show the highest correlations with feelings of overall self-worth (Harter 2000). ...
Given the lack of validated measures of adolescents’ self-representation, in this paper we present the development process and psychometric properties of a new self-representation questionnaire for adolescents (SRQA), aged 12–16 year old. We examined SRQA factor structure through two studies. In the first study, 32 attributes (16 positive and 16 negative), previously validated in three studies, were administered to 239 adolescents (M = 13.8; SD = 1.28). An exploratory factor analysis showed that 21 attributes (13 positive and 8 negative) were organized in five factors: instrumental, social, emotional, intelligence, and physical appearance. In the second study, these 21 attributes were administered to 232 adolescents (M = 13.8; SD = 1.23). A confirmatory factor analysis supported the SRQA five factor model (Model fit: χ
2/df ratio = 2.392; CFI = .90; RMSEA = .08). Internal consistency was acceptable, ranging between .60 and .85. Girls displayed higher scores in the instrumental and social factors, whereas boys presented higher scores on the physical appearance factor. In line with previous research, results regarding age differences were inconsistent: while in Study 1 results suggested that as, age increases, adolescents’ intelligence self-representation becomes more negative, in Study 2 no age differences were found. Concurrent validity of the SRQA was explored through correlations with the Teacher Report Form, filled out by the adolescents’ homeroom teachers. Results revealed significant negative correlations between two dimensions of self-representation (i.e., instrumental and intelligence) and several dimensions of adolescents’ internalizing and externalizing problems, providing evidence of concurrent validity for the SRQA.
... According to multidimensional and hierarchical approaches to self-worth (Fox, 2000;Harter, 2000;Marsh & Shalverson, 1985) and research findings, (Duda et al., 1995;Fox, 2000;Piek et al., 2006) one's perception of PSW derives from, and thereby interacts with, perceptions of specific components of physical competence, actual motor competence and physical fitness. Moreover, perceptions of PSW may be mediated by the relative importance one attributes to any particular domain of competence (Lindwall et al., 2011). ...
... Consequently, the consistent finding in the literature of negative self-discrepancy for AB regardless of motor competence in youth, means that the importance of this subdomain is not easily discounted in perceptions of self, hence it is unlikely to act as a buffer against negative self-worth. Perhaps the pervasive influence of social and other media promoting an attractive body in our society, and Harter's (2000) linking of self-worth and physical appearance, that she refers to as the perpetually visible portable self, explains this effect in adolescence. A number of early researchers, such as Sonstroem et al. (1994) and Bandura (1990), have suggested that body attractiveness should be considered more a component of self-love rather than of physical mastery. ...
Purpose: Adolescent perceptions of their physical self-worth (PSW) and the component domains draw upon physical attributes, such as motor competence, physical fitness, and self-perceptions, which in turn enhance the desire to engage in physical activity. Whilst these relationships have been researched in populations with typical motor development, little is known of the interplay of these contributors to PSW with those with low motor competence (LMC). Even less is known of how importance placed on particular physical subdomains may be used by the adolescent with LMC to mitigate negative effects on their perceptions of PSW. Method: Thirty-four adolescents with low motor competence, 25 boys and 9 girls (Mage = 13.89 yrs, SD = 1.49), completed the McCarron Assessment of Neuromuscular Development (MAND), the Children's Physical Self-Perception Questionnaire (C-PSPP) and a range of physical fitness tests. Results: All self-perception subdomain score was lower than importance ratings. Physical fitness measures were also low but were not significantly associated with PSW. However, the higher importance scores relative to physical self-perceptions resulted in greater discrepancy scores in all subdomains. Conclusion: Adolescents with LMC have low PSW, and low self-perceptions relative to importance ratings for most physical self-subdomains. These discrepancies, rather than actual fitness, potentially reduce their motivation to be physically active.
... A possible decline in self-esteem is observed due to the increasing emphasis on social comparison and pubertal changes. [22][23][24][25] Study series from Harter focused on the development of self-esteem during childhood and adolescence. 23 Regarding mean-level change, Harter identified several processes that marked the ups and downs in self-esteem from early to middle childhood (i.e., from about age 4-8 years). ...
... The decline may become stronger while facing social comparison, less personal attention by teachers, and pubertal changes. [22][23][24][25] Results from a meta-analysis showed that average levels of self-esteem increased from age 4 to 11 and remained stable from age 11 to 15. 18 Positive self-esteem trajectory in childhood suggested a transition from early to middle childhood. 26 Budding Well program chose music (harmonica playing) and arts (drawing) as teaching media. ...
Introduction: Children with physical disabilities are less likely to access music and arts due to their extremity anomalies. "Budding Well" is a non-conventional rehabilitation program providing music and arts courses for the targeted participants. The program has run through the third year and a review of the service outcomes has been sorted.
Methods and participants: Aged 6-18 years with different kinds and degrees of limb dysfunctions were invited to join the program. The course consisted of 10 learning classes on playing harmonica (music) or painting (arts). Functional assessments [Bruininks-Oseretsky-Test-of-Motor-Proficiency second edition (BOT-2) and Grip-and-pinch strength] and psychosocial centric questionnaires [Lyubomirsky and Lepper's Subjective Happiness Scale (SHS), Well-Being Index (WHO-5), and Culture-Free Self-Esteem Inventory-2 (CFESI-2) Form A] were performed and completed at the first and last (10th) class. Program evaluation questionnaire was filled at the last class.
Results: Thirty-five participants (male = 20, female = 15) of mean age 8.65 joined the program. Functional assessments and psychosocial centric questionnaire outcomes except CFESI-2 did not show any statistical difference. Age sensitivity testing in CFESI-2 Social domain score showed the best result when cutoff age was at 10.5 (p = 0.04) and this cutoff value was further proved by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis (p < 0.01). On subjective evaluation, parents noticed a significant improvement in the hand function of their children (p = 0.01).
Conclusion: Hand functions and psychosocial skills of children and teenagers with different levels of physical disabilities or disfigurement proved to benefit from our program through music and arts. Participants of age at 10.5 best responded to the program, particularly on the significant improvement in self-esteem.
... A semi-structured interview guide was developed with the intention of exploring how a selection of informants experienced the wardrobe practice among students in physical education. The interview guide had questions relating to the informant's thoughts and experiences concerning perception of the teacher (e.g., Ommundsen & Kvalø, 2007;Siedentop & Tannehill, 1999), peer relations (e.g., Bjørnebekk, 2015;Siedentop & Tannehill, 1999;Borgen & Rugseth, 2014) self-evaluation (e.g., Cash & Pruzinsky, 1990;Harter, 2000;Kvalem, 2007;Zimbardo, 1981) and digital environment (e.g., Bjørnebekk, 2015;Moen, Westlie, Brattli, Bjørke, & Vaktskjold, 2015). Figure 1 illustrates the four main themes used to highlight the topic "wardrobe practice among students in physical education". ...
... They revealed that the use of social media when class mates or friends gave likes of posted picture of either a girl or a boy they know or any famous model, it influenced their perception of their own body. As pointed out earlier, the concept of body image is complex (Cash & Pruzinsky, 1990;Harter, 2000;Kvalem, 2007;Tiggemann, 2014), and when the boys in this study were asked whether they are affected by the girls' views on the ideal body several answered without hesitating yes because they know what the girls in their class appreciate about the boys and their bodies, and what they comment on Facebook and Instagram. Nevertheless, the boys still seem to have a nuanced picture of the ideal body and reported that they are not so concerned if someone is thick or thin if they are satisfied themselves. ...
The aim of this study is to examine the wardrobe context among students in physical education (PE) in lower secondary school and describe their various experiences of the atmosphere in the locker room and their showering habits. 16 semi structured in-depth interviews with eight boys and eight girls, all aged 15, in the 10th grade (third and final year of lower secondary school) were conducted to grasp some of the ongoing interactions between students and the context of the wardrobe practice before and after PE lessons. The planning of the interviews is grounded in a variety of topics such as the class environment, the influence of teacher behavior, self-evaluation, and the role of social media. Four main categories emerged when describing the students’ various experiences of the wardrobe practice in PE; 1) Friendship, 2) Physical Facilities, 3) Digital Life and 4) Shyness. Overall, the students feel comfortable as well as motivated for participation in the PE lessons and the atmosphere in the wardrobe seems to play a vital part. However, students may be exposed to an unhealthy body image through their fellow students, the role of social media, and the society’s view of what is an ideal body. The results may suggest that in general puberty and the major bodily changes occurring in this age create unpleasantness and shyness of being exposed to other students previously unknown to them. Habitually, most of the girls choose not to shower while exposed to fellow female students after ended PE session while the boys who are showering do it in their underwear.
Keywords: Wardrobe practice; comradeship; puberty; shyness; showering habits
... The second strategy currently under investigation sought to promote participants' self-esteem or overall evaluation of self-worth (Harter, 2000). Although the direction of any causal associations between self-esteem and body image has yet to be established (Wichstrøm & Von Soest, 2016), the existence of a robust link between these variables has provided the basis for the development of self-esteem based interventions for the prevention of body image concerns (O'Dea, 2004). ...
... Some studies show improvements in body dissatisfaction, dietary restraint, and shape and weight attitudes (McVey et al., 2003;Norwood, Murray, Nolan, & Bowker, 2011;O'Dea & Abraham, 2000), while others show no differences between intervention and control groups on such body image variables (Ghaderi, Mårtensson, & Schwan, 2005;McCabe, Ricciardelli, Salmon, 2006;McVey & Davis, 2002). Indeed, researchers have argued that selfesteem based on physical appearance-where it requires constant validation or favourable comparison with others-may be continually threatened (Harter, 2000;Lowery et al., 2005;Neff, 2011). In particular, individuals with appearance contingent self-esteem may ruminate on negative body image incidents, thus becoming more vulnerable to negative body image (Neff, 2011). ...
This study investigated whether single-session self-compassion and self-esteem writing tasks ameliorate the body image concerns evoked by a negative body image induction. Ninety-six female university students aged 17–25 years (Mage = 19.45, SD = 1.84) were randomly assigned to one of three writing treatment groups: self-compassion, self-esteem, or control. After reading a negative body image scenario, participants completed scales measuring state body appreciation, body satisfaction, and appearance anxiety. They then undertook the assigned writing task, and completed the three measures again, both immediately post-treatment and at 2-week follow-up. The self-compassion writing group showed higher post-treatment body appreciation than the self-esteem and control groups, and higher body appreciation than the control group at follow-up. At post-treatment and follow-up, self-compassion and self-esteem writing showed higher body satisfaction than the control. The groups did not differ on appearance anxiety. Writing-based interventions, especially those that enhance self-compassion, may help alleviate certain body image concerns.
... A semi-structured interview guide was developed with the intention of exploring how a selection of informants experienced the wardrobe practice among students in physical education. The interview guide had questions relating to the informant's thoughts and experiences concerning perception of the teacher (e.g., Ommundsen & Kvalø, 2007;Siedentop & Tannehill, 1999), peer relations (e.g., Bjørnebekk, 2015;Siedentop & Tannehill, 1999;Borgen & Rugseth, 2014) self-evaluation (e.g., Cash & Pruzinsky, 1990;Harter, 2000;Kvalem, 2007;Zimbardo, 1981) and digital environment (e.g., Bjørnebekk, 2015;Moen, Westlie, Brattli, Bjørke, & Vaktskjold, 2015). Figure 1 illustrates the four main themes used to highlight the topic "wardrobe practice among students in physical education". ...
... They revealed that the use of social media when class mates or friends gave likes of posted picture of either a girl or a boy they know or any famous model, it influenced their perception of their own body. As pointed out earlier, the concept of body image is complex (Cash & Pruzinsky, 1990;Harter, 2000;Kvalem, 2007;Tiggemann, 2014), and when the boys in this study were asked whether they are affected by the girls' views on the ideal body several answered without hesitating yes because they know what the girls in their class appreciate about the boys and their bodies, and what they comment on Facebook and Instagram. Nevertheless, the boys still seem to have a nuanced picture of the ideal body and reported that they are not so concerned if someone is thick or thin if they are satisfied themselves. ...
Abstract. The aim of this study is to examine the wardrobe context among students in physical education (PE) in lower secondary school and describe their various experiences of the atmosphere in the locker room and their showering habits. 16 semi structured in-depth interviews with eight boys and eight girls, all aged 15, in the 10th grade (third and final year of lower secondary school) were conducted to grasp some of the ongoing interactions between students and the context of the wardrobe practice before and after PE lessons. The planning of the interviews is grounded in a variety of topics such as the class environment, the influence of teacher behavior, self-evaluation, and the role of social media. Four main categories emerged when describing the students’ various experiences of the wardrobe practice in PE; 1) Friendship, 2) Physical Facilities, 3) Digital Life and 4) Shyness. Overall, the students feel comfortable as well as motivated for participation in the PE lessons and the atmosphere in the wardrobe seems to play a vital part. However, students may be exposed to an unhealthy body image through their fellow students, the role of social media, and the society’s view of what is an ideal body. The results may suggest that in general puberty and the major bodily changes occurring in this age create unpleasantness and shyness of being exposed to other students previously unknown to them. Habitually, most of the girls choose not to shower while exposed to fellow female students after ended PE session while the boys who are showering do it in their underwear.
Keywords: Wardrobe practice; comradeship; puberty; shyness; showering habits
... The way a child is perceived by others and by itself is mediated by social standards which may differ in some aspects for certain sexes or social groups, for example, it has been observed that girls from middle childhood evaluate their physical appearance more critically than boys. This may be explained by the different standards set for girls and boys within society (Harter, 1985;Harter, 2000). Normative-developmental changes in self-concept occur in certain age periods (Harter, 2005). ...
... Similar results were observed in other studies (e.g. Boivin et al, 1992;Harter, 2000). The influence of other subscales was significant but not as crucial with the exception of Athletic Competence which proved to be non-significant in the constructed model. ...
The Self-Perception Profile for Children (SPPC) is a measure which allows one to assess children’s self-concept. Our article presents this instrument’s psychometric properties within a Polish sample. In our study we tested 432 elementary school students and 14 form teachers. As validity indicators we used the Teacher’s Rating Scale of Child’s Actual Behavior (TRS) and the average school grade for the previous semester. The Polish version of SPPC yielded good psychometric properties. The instrument’s factorial structure paralleled the structure of the original version. Reliability was high both in terms of internal consistency and test-retest results. Scale validity was confirmed in the correlational analysis. Boys scored higher than girls in the Physical Appearance and Global Self-Worth subscales but lower in the Behavioral Conduct subscale. Younger children scored higher than older children in the Scholastic Competence, Physical Appearance, and Global Self-Worth subscales. Judgments on children’s physical appearance were the best predictor of their global self-worth.
... The way a child is perceived by others and by itself is mediated by social standards which may differ in some aspects for certain sexes or social groups, for example, it has been observed that girls from middle childhood evaluate their physical appearance more critically than boys. This may be explained by the different standards set for girls and boys within society (Harter, 1985;Harter, 2000). Normative-developmental changes in self-concept occur in certain age periods (Harter, 2005). ...
... Similar results were observed in other studies (e.g. Boivin et al, 1992;Harter, 2000). The influence of other subscales was significant but not as crucial with the exception of Athletic Competence which proved to be non-significant in the constructed model. ...
Artykuł jest próbą przeglądu teorii oraz badań dotyczących skuteczności interwencji zmniejszających
uprzedzenia wobec członków stereotypizowanych grup. Przedstawione metody i techniki oddziaływania
wywodzą się z teorii kontaktu międzygrupowego oraz teorii tożsamości społecznej i kategoryzacji.
W artykule opisane są następujące techniki zmiany uprzedzeń: hipoteza kontaktu, klasa mieszana,
model Pettigrew, kontakt z transgresją oraz hipoteza wyobrażonego kontaktu wywodzące się
z teorii kontaktu międzygrupowego, a także teoria wspólnej tożsamości grupowej i skrzyżowanych
kategoryzacji społecznych, które mają swoje korzenie w teorii tożsamości społecznej i kategoryzacji.
Szczególny nacisk położony jest na te metody, które można zastosować podczas zajęć szkolnych.
Artykuł jest także próbą odpowiedzi na pytania które techniki, w jakich warunkach i kontekstach
edukacyjno-społecznych przynoszą najlepsze efekty.
Our paper reviews research studies that have investigated interventions aimed at prejudice reduction.
The theories and research results are summarized in the following categories: intergroup contact, social
identity, and categorization. The intergroup contact approach inspired such techniques as contact
hypothesis, jigsaw classroom, Pettigrew’s model, contact with transgression, and imagined intergroup
contact hypothesis; while social identity gave the ground for common ingroup identity and crossed
categorization theories. We place special emphasis on methods applicable for a school setting, and try
to answer the questions: when, why and under which condition will a given method work.
... The way a child is perceived by others and by itself is mediated by social standards which may differ in some aspects for certain sexes or social groups, for example, it has been observed that girls from middle childhood evaluate their physical appearance more critically way than boys. This may be explained by the different standards set for girls and boys within society (Harter, 1985;Harter, 2000). Normative-developmental changes in self-concept occur in certain age periods (Harter, 2005). ...
... Similar results were observed in other studies (e.g. Boivin et al, 1992;Harter, 2000). The influence of other subscales was significant but not as crucial with the exception of Athletic Competence which proved to be non-significant in the constructed model. ...
The main goals of this study are 1) to explore whether internal relationship patterns are related to personality organization, and 2) to recognize the role that selected relationship patterns play in diagnosing personality organization levels. Internal relationship patterns were assessed according to the core conflictual relationship theme (CCRT)—about wishes (WS), responses from others (RO), and responses of the self (RS)—as identified from participants’ self-narratives about important relationships. Significant differences in the frequencies of patterns were found among participants with borderline personality organization (BPO), neurotic personality organization (NPO), and integrated personality (IPO). For example, the majority of negative RS responses were detected in the BPO sample. The study supports the thesis that relationship patterns might be related to personality organization, and that object representation complexity may be a good predictor of integrated personality organization.
http://www.bibliotekacyfrowa.pl/Content/62924/Polish_Journal_of_Applied_Psychology_2014_vol_12_no_3.pdf#page=9
... A woman's hair is not just a part of her external appearance; it plays a significant role in shaping her self-perception and social identity, intricately linked to her perceived attractiveness and femininity. This association has deep roots, as Harter (2000) points out, affecting a woman's self-image and her societal interactions. The importance of hair is ingrained in girls from a young age, teaching them to view it as a central element of their beauty and femininity (Weitz, 2004). ...
This article employs socio-cultural theories to analyse the psycho-social effects of Gazan women cutting their hair during the2023–2024 Gazacide. The severe conditions in Gaza, exacerbated by a lack of sanitation and essential resources due to the ongoing blockade, have forced women into extreme precarity. This has led to the compulsory act of hair-cutting as a measure for disease prevention. The act of cutting hair, which disrupts a universally recognised symbol of beauty and health, highlights the broader socio-political crisis. The paper critiques Western feminism for its selective empathy, noting its neglect of Gazan women’s suffering while focusing on issues pertinent to Western contexts. By framing hair-cutting not as individual psychological distress but as a response to aggravated socio-political conditions, the article underscores how this act reflects the broader dehumanisation and suffering imposed by the ongoing genocide.
... In a review of 216 empirical studies, Pierce and Gardner (2004) found that self-esteem was positively related to intrinsic motivation, organizational commitment, and performance (Pierce & Gardner, 2004). Conversely, individuals with negative self-esteem stemming from unfavorable body image may experience lower selfconfidence and reduced self-worth (Harter, 2000;Henriques & Calhoun, 1999;Markham et al., 2005). This diminished self-esteem can lead to lower levels of vigor in an Australian sample of employed and unemployed individuals (Muller et al., 1993) or work engagement as a whole (Salmela-Aro & Nurmi, 2007) mainly due to psychological factors such as emotional exhaustion (Maslach et al., 2001) and predict negative emotional states such as depression and anxiety (Sowislo & Orth, 2013). ...
Our investigation delves into the nuanced connection between body image and micro-level management, with a specific focus on the impact on employee vigor in work engagement. We argue that an ongoing discourse surrounds the significance of body image in human well-being, particularly within the workplace-a domain that has been marginally explored to date. Positioning self-esteem as the linchpin that transcends disciplinary boundaries, we advocate for scholars across management disciplines to delve into the study of body image. Employing the social comparison theory as our conceptual framework, we shed light on the intricate interplay between body image and organizational dynamics. Utilizing cross-sectional data from a robust sample of 860 U.S. employees, rigorously examined through structural equation modeling, our findings present valuable insights for interventions aimed at improving employee well-being and nurturing positive body image in professional settings. Noteworthy outcomes include a direct positive correlation between positive body image and vigor in work engagement, coupled with a direct negative association between negative body image and vigor in work engagement. Moreover, our research identifies the pivotal role of self-esteem in mediating the relationship between negative body image and vigor among employees. This study pioneers an interdisciplinary exploration, casting illumination on the convergence of organizational behavior and body image-a terrain that warrants further investigation.
... Research suggests that the impact of physical appearance on self-esteem is most pronounced during adolescence. Fredrickson and Roberts and (1997), Harter (1986Harter ( , 2000 Being better than others ...
This study examined the significance of self-worth as a crucial factor in human mental health and psychosocial development. The study explores self-worth interventions, mental disorders, and available resources. A comprehensive analysis of the conceptual and theoretical aspects of self-worth is undertaken. To begin with, the study offers conceptual justifications drawn from the self-worth literature, elucidating theoretical perspectives on the formation of self-worth in individuals. It elaborates on related concepts and their interconnections with self-worth. Furthermore, the examination extends to the influence of culture on self-worth development and emotions. Theoretical discussions on self-worth are approached through Psychoanalytic theory, Psychosocial development theory, Transactional analysis theory, and Attachment theory. The research scrutinizes the association between various mental disorders and self-worth, investigating how a lack of self-worth may exacerbate or precipitate certain psychopathologies. Previous interventions aimed at enhancing self-worth are outlined, accompanied by an exploration of methods for measuring self-worth. The study emphasizes the pivotal role of self-worth in individuals' mental health, considering the implications of concepts like unconditional self-worth and contingencies of self-worth. Recommendations are provided for individuals, parents, and mental health professionals based on the findings.
... Since selfdisclosure on SNSs is associated with different forms of privacy risks in the long run, parents who are more concerned about online privacy tend to be more proactive in influencing their children's self-disclosure behavior, as specified in H4. Such influence would be expected to more readily induce daughters' compliance behavior in terms of reducing their self-disclosure on SNSs because of their generally greater sensitivity to parental expectations (Harter, 2000) and need for intimacy and family ties (Ohannessian, 2013;Perry & Pauletti, 2011). Sons, compared to daughters, tend to be more autonomous, defiant, and self-reliant (Perry & Pauletti, 2011); thus, their compliance with parental privacy concerns regarding self-disclosure on SNSs is expected to be weaker. ...
Drawing upon the literatures in information privacy, developmental psychology, and family science, this research investigates how parental online privacy concerns can be passed on to adolescents and affect their self-disclosure on social networking sites. We propose that parental privacy concerns decrease adolescents’ self-disclosure both directly (i.e., compliance) and indirectly through adolescents’ privacy concerns (i.e., internalization) and that such effects are moderated by parent-child privacy dissonance, parental internet evaluative mediation, and adolescents’ gender. To test the research model, we collected matched parent-child data from 726 families in China. The results show the indirect effect of parental privacy concerns on adolescents’ self-disclosure via their influence on adolescents’ privacy concerns. In addition, parent-child privacy dissonance weakens the effect of adolescents’ privacy concerns on self-disclosure. The extent to which parents employ internet evaluative mediation to guide adolescents’ online activities reinforces the effect of parental privacy concerns on adolescents’ privacy concerns. Statistical analyses further revealed that the mediating effect of adolescents’ privacy concerns is weakened by parent-child privacy dissonance but strengthened by internet evaluative mediation. We also found that parental privacy concerns affect sons and daughters through different paths, especially when parents employ high internet evaluative mediation. Under high internet evaluative mediation, parental privacy concerns affect sons’ self-disclosure primarily through an indirect path (via sons’ privacy concerns), but influence daughters’ self-disclosure both directly and indirectly via daughters’ privacy concerns. We conclude by discussing theoretical contributions and practical implications.
... Paul Schilder, an Austrian psychiatrist, believed the concept of body image is an integration of one's bodily experiences and the meaning constructed regarding these experiences during childhood [10]. In addition, the literature has established the important role in the link between body image and self-esteem [11][12][13][14]. A solid therapeutic relationship is essential when working with these patients. ...
Organ transplant recipients can experience undiagnosed psychological distress such as anxiety and depression as a result of the transplant process. Transplant recipients can also experience emotional distress related to body image which could result in disordered eating. The research suggests negative body image can result from a medical illness which could affect medical outcomes. There are a limited number of studies on organ transplant recipients experiencing negative body image and distorted eating. In an effort to address the psychological needs of organ transplant recipients, further collaboration between medical and mental health providers is needed to assess the psychological health of patients and improve quality of life, long term graft survival and overall medical outcomes.
... Self-esteem is how a person accept, value, or like him or her own self [17]. According to William James in Harter [18], individual self-esteem is based on how adequate a person feels on areas particularly important for him or herself. Selfesteem is a very important psychological factor and strongly linked to mental and/or physical health and social behaviour. ...
... Girls who mature in advance of their peers appear to view themselves as less physically attractive and, as a consequence, report lower physical self-worth. Physical appearance is considered an important source of self-worth and esteem in adolescent girls (Harter 2000). A study of over 50 US adolescent girls and boys suggested that body attractiveness was the most common subject of conversation for girls during adolescence and was deemed to be of greater importance than one's success in education and sports (Martin 1996). ...
Background:
Advanced (early) biological maturation may be a risk factor for inactivity among adolescent girls.
Aim:
To test the mediational effects of body attractiveness and physical self-worth on the relationship between biological maturity and accelerometer assessed moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) in a large multi-ethnic sample of girls from the Midlands area in the UK (11-14 years).
Subjects and methods:
Biological maturity (predicting age at peak height velocity (APHV)); self-perceptions of body attractiveness, physical self-worth, and minutes spent in MVPA were assessed in 1062 females aged 11-14 years.
Results:
Structural equation modelling using maximum likelihood estimation and boot- strapping procedures supported the hypothesised model. Later maturation predicted higher perceptions of body attractiveness (β = 0.25, p < .001) which, in turn, predicted higher perceptions of physical self-worth (β = 0.91, p < .001) and, significantly higher MVPA (β = 0.22, p < .001). Examination of the bootstrap-generated bias-corrected confidence intervals suggested that perceptions of body attractiveness and physical self-worth partially mediated a positive association between predicted APHV and MVPA (β = 0.05, p < .001).
Conclusions:
Greater biological maturity (i.e. early maturity) in adolescent girls is associated with less involvement in MVPA and appears to be partly explained by lower perceptions of body attractiveness and physical self-worth. Physical activity interventions should consider girls' perceptions of their pubertal related physiological changes during adolescence, particularly among early maturing girls.
... 15 Malocclusions, dental traumas and dental enamel disturbances may be judged negatively not just by the individual who has them, but also and even more by others. 16,17 Enamel defects have been widely discussed, mainly in terms of color and loss of structure. These defects may affect an individual's social life and self-esteem. ...
This study aimed to evaluate adolescents’ aesthetic perceptions and their social judgments regarding different enamel opacities. Sample size was calculated and resulted in the inclusion of 100 adolescents (aged 10 to 15 years) from a public school in Jequié, Bahia, Brazil. Images of enamel opacities were manipulated to create aesthetic enamel defects, such as enamel color changes (unilateral and bilateral white opacity, unilateral and bilateral yellowish opacity, and unilateral and bilateral yellowish opacity with loss of structure). The images of the opacities were based on Fédération Dentaire Internationale’s Developmental Defects of Enamel (DDE) Index. Aesthetic perception and social judgments were evaluated using a validated questionnaire with 12 questions (six positive and six negative points) on social aspects, considering the six manipulated images and the control. The photographic analyses were projected one-by-one by computer to adolescents individually in a classroom. Participants had one minute to observe each image and answer the questionnaire. The data were analyzed by descriptions, and the Friedman Wilcoxon test (p < 0.05). The results indicate that all opacities negatively impacted social judgment (p < 0.001). The enamel aesthetic defects most affecting an individual’s perception were bilateral yellow opacity with or without loss of structure (p < 0.001). Regarding social judgment, all participants showed a negative perception of all the tested opacity types (p < 0.001). In conclusion, even opacities presenting only a color change caused aesthetic dissatisfaction to the individuals and changes in their social judgment toward others. Color changes in dental enamel have several aesthetic consequences.
... It has been suggested that the body takes on such significance because it acts as a public display of the self. Unlike other domains, it is omnipresent, always available for observation and judgment, both by the self and by others (Harter 2012). Negative evaluations of the physical self can occur in any context where a potential for evaluation exists, either by the self or by others, and can precipitate a range of negative emotions about one's body including shame and guilt. ...
Body-related emotions have been identified as important predictors of mental and physical health. Evaluations of the physical self are inextricably linked with body-related emotions. However, little research has addressed how physical self-concept is associated with anticipated emotions and how associations may differ between men and women. The current study examined associations between physical self-concept and anticipated guilt and shame and examined gender as a moderator of these associations. The sample consisted of 353 Canadian undergraduate students (55% female; Mage = 21.94. range = 18–64). Participants read a hypothetical scenario commonly associated with guilt and shame experiences and were asked to anticipate their emotional experience when imagining themselves in the scenario. Participants also indicated their gender and completed a measure of physical self-concept. Gender moderated the relationship between physical self-concept and anticipated shame but not guilt. Specifically, there was a negative association between physical self-concept and anticipated shame for women but not for men. Findings are consistent with the notion that gender role socialization shapes the emotional experiences, specifically feelings of shame, of men and women differently. The results demonstrate that even imagining a situation that runs counter to societal ideals for women’s bodies as thin and toned coincides with the anticipation of shame among adult women with more negative physical self-concept.
... In addition, interpersonal and physical appearance attributes are especially salient from late childhood/early adolescence onwards (Harter, 2015), given the marked increase in social awareness and scrutiny of physical appearance features (Vartanian, 2000). Indeed, social and physical appearance self-representations are the most strongly correlated to global self-esteem (Harter, 2000). These developmental characteristics may also account for the distinction between the role of social and physical appearance self-representations and the role of opposition self-presentations, in associations between maltreatment experiences and externalizing problems. ...
Background:
Associations between maltreatment experiences and psychopathology symptoms in children and adolescents are well established. However, the role of domain-specific self-representations (SR) in those associations remains unexplored.
Objective:
This multi-informant study aimed to explore the indirect associations between maltreatment experiences and children's and adolescents' psychopathology symptoms (i.e., internalizing and externalizing problems), through domain-specific self-representations, and the moderating role of age in those indirect associations.
Participants and setting:
Participants were 203 children/adolescents (52.7 % boys), aged 8-16 years old (M = 12.64; SD = 2.47), referred to child/youth protection commissions, their parents, and case workers.
Method:
Case workers reported on child/adolescent maltreatment, children/adolescents reported on SR, and parents reported on psychopathology symptoms.
Results:
Controlling for chronicity of maltreatment and child/adolescent sex effects, multiple mediation path analysis revealed that: 1) higher levels of physical and psychological abuse were associated with less externalizing problems through more negative social SR; 2) higher levels of physical neglect were associated with more externalizing problems through more positive opposition SR; 3) higher levels of psychological neglect were associated with less externalizing problems through more negative physical appearance SR, and 4) associated with more externalizing problems through more negative opposition SR. Moreover, the indirect effects of physical and psychological abuse on internalizing and externalizing problems through instrumental SR were conditional on child/adolescent age.
Conclusion:
Findings signal the relevance of preventing child/adolescent maltreatment and promoting the construction of positive and, foremost, realistic and adaptive self-representations as protection against maladjustment.
... First, early adolescence is a time of more rapid and dynamic changes associated with puberty that may influence one's selfevaluation in domains related to physical appearance or athletic competence (Harter 2012b). The biological, pubertal changes influencing adolescents' physical appearance and attractiveness may also influence their global self-esteem as physical appearance seems to be the most important domain for the formation of this general self-evaluation (Harter 2000). Second, social changes related to the period of early adolescence, including the change of social environment during the transition to junior high school (Wigfield et al. 1991) and the increasing role of social comparisons in the formation of self-esteem (Cole et al. 2001), may influence self-esteem in the domains related to social context. ...
Self-esteem is continuous and has stable characteristics, but it may also change, e.g., during transitions from one educational level to the next. In a prospective cross-sectional study over a year and a half, 250 Polish early adolescents (N = 109, 54 girls; mean age at T1 = 12.68 years, SD = 0.49) and middle adolescents (N = 141, 107 girls; mean age at T1 = 15.80, SD = 0.44) were tested three times using Harter’s Self-Perception Profile for Adolescents, assessing both global self-esteem and self-evaluation in eight domains. The change and consistency of self-esteem were analyzed, at both group and individual levels. At the group level, the following results were found: (1) continuity of self-esteem in five domains (scholastic competence, athletic competence, physical appearance, close friendship, and romantic appeal) and in global self-esteem and discontinuity in only three domains (social acceptance, job competence, and behavioral conduct); (2) significant inter-individual variation in the change not explained by age; and (3) higher self-esteem (in five domains) in early adolescents. At the individual level, the stability in most domains was weak, but was restored over the second year at the new school. The complexity of the developmental change and consistency in self-esteem in adolescence was highlighted, emphasizing the need for analyzing both group and individual change.
... Although adolescents reported more time in the sun during peak UV hours, adolescents and young adults internalized a tanned ideal and reported appearance comparisons to the same extent. It is possible that these factors remain constant across the two age groups because both groups are high consumers of media and subject to pressure that confirms appearance as a determining factor of self-worth and popularity (Harter, 2000;Patrick, Neighbors, & Knee, 2004). Other research has reported similar results, with no difference found in internalization of a thin ideal between adolescents and adults (Grabe, Ward, & Hyde, 2008). ...
We examined whether sharing photos on social networking sites and, in particular, the approach to sharing photos online were associated with internalization of a tanned ideal and appearance comparisons. Adolescents and young adults (N = 587) completed measures of social networking site use, photo activities, internalization, and appearance comparisons. Regular photo-sharers internalized a tanned ideal to a greater extent and reported engaging in more frequent appearance comparisons to people in media than participants who did not regularly share photos online. Internalization was associated with editing photos prior to posting, whereas appearance comparisons were associated with investment, measured as the concern for the quality and effort expended in selecting photos (e.g., carefully selecting a photo, taking a photo specifically for posting) and editing photos prior to posting. Future interventions to reduce the risk of skin cancer should address users’ investment in the quality of photos they share online and the desire to manipulate photos to adhere to appearance ideals.
... Facebook. The importance of physical appearance on teenagers' self-esteem is supported by other researches as well (Harter, 2000;Eugene W. Mathes & Arnold Kahn, 2010;Gallagher, 2017). The number of "likes" is positively correlated with the relationships with the opposite sex. ...
Teenagers use social networks on a daily basis; they provide communication and information services and offer the chance to establish new relationships or maintain existing ones. Self-esteem, the esteem we have for our abilities and for what we can achieve, is affected by the comparison with others and by whether we are accepted by them or not. Since social networks enable their users to accept people or not, and they are also spaces highlighting social comparisons, it is important to investigate whether they have impact on teenagers’ self-esteem. This paper examines the perceptions of teenagers about social networks and investigates whether Facebook, as a representative of social networks, has impact on teenagers’ self-esteem. The survey was conducted among students in Athens, aged 16 (N = 71) and the Self Perception Profile for Adolescents (Harter, 1988) questionnaire was used, in its Greek version PATEM IV, adding questions regarding the opinions of teenagers for the use of social networks and their acceptance and popularity, which were correlated with the PATEM IV sub-scales. The study showed that self-esteem is not connected with the frequency with which students use Facebook or the level of acceptance or popularity of the users. It appears that teenagers primarily seek recognition and establishing relationships with their peers through social networks. The closer the relationships, the more they use social networks to communicate and less for self-promotion. The number of “likes” is positively correlated with relationships with the opposite sex. Teenagers with more “likes” on their profile pictures have developed better relationships with the opposite sex. Percentage of 51.6% expresses the need of higher acceptance and social recognition by others and uses “tags” in order to increase the “likes” received. 87.1% uses social networks on a daily basis and 57.1% two hours and more daily, but the majority finds enough time to go out. It is alarming that 53% of the teenagers sacrifice their sleeping and studying time to find time use social networks. In general, our research reaffirms the need of teenagers to belong to a group, and also the importance of relationships among peers during adolescence. The vast majority belongs to communities with known persons, using social networks safely, and they believe that they are beneficial. Finally, it appears that Facebook contributes to the establishment of relationships, particularly with the opposite sex.
... scence/development/en/). During adolescence, issues such as physical appearance, peer acceptance, close friendships, academic achievement, and athletic competence are important for the self-worth and self-esteem of adolescents (Harter, 2000). Social and peer acceptance is the priority of an adolescent, and various stereotypes and judgments affect him/her adversely (Almenara & Je zek, 2015;Greenleaf, Petrie, & Martin, 2014;Madowitz, Knatz, Maginot, Crow, & Boutelle, 2012). ...
Background
The tools to measure teasing are not available in Turkish literature. This study aimed to examine the psychometric properties and performance of a Turkish version of the Child‐Adolescent Teasing Scale (CATS) among a sample of Turkish children.
Methods
Four hundred middle school (grades 5‐6‐7‐8) students comprised the sample. CATS is composed of four subfactors and 32 items. Language equivalence and content validity were assessed by five experts. Psychometric testing included internal consistency reliability (Cronbach's alpha coefficient and item‐total correlations), test–retest reliability, construct validity (principal component analysis via oblique rotation and confirmatory factor analysis), and variability (floor and ceiling effects).
Results
Of the participants, 52.5% were female. Their mean age was 12.54 ± 1.11. Language equivalence and content validity were assessed by five experts. The Content Validity Index of the scale was .87. The correlation coefficient ranged between .34 and .70. Cronbach's alpha was .92 for the total scale. The test–retest correlation value was r = .87. The scale confirmatory factor analysis showed that the scale had a four‐factor structure. These four factors explained 55.51% of the total variance. The reliability coefficient of the relationship between each subscale in relation to the total scores of the scale ranged from .56 to .93.
Conclusions
In conclusion, the Turkish version of the CATS which has good psychometric properties similar to those of the original English version is a valid and reliable tool. While the original scale has 32 items, the Turkish version of the CATS has four factors and 23 items. It can be used to assess teasing in children and adolescents.
... Thus, the programme seems to have improved what Fox refers to as one's 'physical self-worth' (Fox, 1999). This dimension of well-being is especially important in the teenage years (Harter, 2000;Rees, Goswami, & Bradshaw, 2010) and may be especially important for pupils, like those here, who are, according to teacher reports, generally low in self-confidence and self-esteem. ...
Outdoor activities can be an important complement to classroom learning, especially for children/young people excluded, or at risk of exclusion, from mainstream schooling. The current research explored the impact of a 12-week surfing programme among such a group in the UK. Pre-post data on physiological health (heart rate (HR)/blood pressure), self-reported well-being (life and domain satisfaction), connectedness (e.g. to nature, school), environmental awareness (e.g. role of sand dunes) and teacher evaluations (e.g. behaviour) were collected. Results found significant drops in HR (suggesting improved fitness), increased satisfaction with appearance, more positive attitudes towards school and friendships, greater environmental awareness and more positive teacher evaluations, post-intervention. A lack of findings in other domains suggests these results were not due to participants simply conforming to demand characteristics. Overall, the results suggest that surfing interventions could have important benefits for vulnerable young people who struggle with mainstream schooling. The need for future research using control groups and longer term follow-up is discussed.
... These results are also in line with past research, which found associations between PA and physical self-perception (Bowker et al., 2006;Goldfield et al., 2011;Haugen et al., 2013;Schmalz et al., 2007). Self-esteem is generally thought to be a multi-dimensional construct, with physical self-esteem being especially important to adolescents' mental health (Harter, 2000;Marsh et al., 1994;Mendelson et al., 1997). The current HC approach yielded predictable improvements across several domains of physical self-concept, including PA, strength and global physical self-concept, suggesting that despite making no changes to actual body weight/shape these young women still evidenced changes in self-construal, including how they evaluated their appearance. ...
School-based physical education (PE) is the most efficient and cost-effective means of increasing girls’ physical activity. Therefore, this project used a health club (HC) approach to alter a high school PE experience for 17 grade nine girls (M age = 14.6 ± .49). As part of a larger mixed-methods study, this qualitative element gauged adolescent girls’ perceptions of their HC experience using the frameworks of interpretive description and practice-referenced research. Students participated in both pre- and post-intervention semi-structured focus group interviews and completed journals throughout the 14-week intervention. Results revealed autonomy as one organizing theme, including students reporting the importance of choice, variety, and novelty. A second organizing theme was relatedness, with subthemes specific to how girls appreciated having a single-gender PE experience, and their desire for a positive relationship with the research assistants who were leading the experience at the health club.
... The competencies included in Harter's self-perception profiles may indeed be those most important to today's youth. Harter herself has written about how perceived physical appearance is the number 1 predictor of global self-worth [15]. This is true from age 5 through to adulthood. ...
Purpose of review:
There are contrasting views regarding the psychological well-being of children with obesity. Responding to limitations of existing evidence, Jane Wardle in 2005 argued for a 'myth of psychological maladjustment'. This review looks again at self-esteem.
Recent findings:
The different characterisations of self-esteem each offer value. Global self-esteem is reduced in nearly all studies of youth with obesity. Dimensional self-esteem reveals physical appearance, athletic and social competence as the most affected areas, confirmed by research that has operationalised low self-competence. Children with obesity are also more likely to be victimised by their peers, generally and for their fatness. Victims who bully others appear to preserve some aspects of self-esteem. A relatively small proportion of youth with obesity has low self-esteem, but those with severe and persistent obesity are especially compromised. Weight loss is only weakly associated with improved self-competence suggesting the value of resilience and asset approaches to improving well-being.
... Jedním ze zdrojů stresu je právě jejich tělesná hmotnost. Kvůli fyzickým změnám v dospívání, i kvůli významu, který svému vzhledu připisují (Harter, 2000;Levine, Smolak, Moodey, Shuman, & Hessen, 1994), jsou dívky od počátku ado-lescence mnohem citlivější ke společenským názorům týkajícím se vzhledu než před nástupem adolescence. S fyzickými změnami, které doprovází i větší osobní autonomie nebo větší orientace na vrstevníky, souvisí rovněž změny ve vnímání vlastního těla (Krch & Csémy, 2009). ...
In this chapter, we will use a sociocultural and developmental approach to explain the weight loss phenomenon during emerging adulthood (ages 18 to 29). We also will present data of weight control behaviors among emerging adult women from a study we conducted in the Czech Republic. After it, we will delineate potential health consequences of weight loss behaviors and dieting, following with recommendations for policy makers in public health, and finishing with the conclusions. //// V této kapitole se pomocí sociokulturního a vývojového přístupu pokusíme vysvětlit fenomén hubnutí během vynořující se dospělosti (od 18 do 29 let). Zároveň zde prezentu-jeme data z naší studie o chování spojeném s hubnutím u mladých českých žen v tomto ob-dobí. Nastíníme možné zdravotní důsledky držení diet a hubnutí, na něž navážeme závěry našeho zkoumání a doporučeními pro zákonodárce zabývající se zdravotnictvím a veřejným zdravím.
... These results are also in line with past research, which found associations between PA and physical self-perception (Bowker et al., 2006;Goldfield et al., 2011;Haugen et al., 2013;Schmalz et al., 2007). Self-esteem is generally thought to be a multi-dimensional construct, with physical self-esteem being especially important to adolescents' mental health (Harter, 2000;Marsh et al., 1994;Mendelson et al., 1997). The current HC approach yielded predictable improvements across several domains of physical self-concept, including PA, strength and global physical self-concept, suggesting that despite making no changes to actual body weight/shape these young women still evidenced changes in self-construal, including how they evaluated their appearance. ...
This pilot project aimed to demonstrate the efficacy and feasibility of an innovative physical education programme, referred to as a health club (HC) approach, in a high school setting. We measured adolescent girls’ moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA), components of health-related physical fitness, and perceptions about themselves and physical activity (PA) during a 14-week programme. The HC approach produced high levels of MVPA. Pre/post physical fitness testing variables included height, weight, body mass index, waist measurement, sit and reach, grip strength, push-ups, sit-ups and a 10-minute walk test. Significant differences were found in participants’ flexibility and cardiovascular fitness at the conclusion of the 14-week programme. Participants reported greater perceived control over their PA, improvements in their physical self-concept across several domains, more positive feelings about appearance and strength and more positive global statements about their physical selves at post-test. The results of this study suggest that the HC approach is a promising approach that deserves further study.
... Clinical outcomes in research in cosmetic and reconstructive breast surgery are increasingly focused on evaluating patient satisfaction and quality of life defined by Shalock (1990) as one's satisfaction with one's life; an inner sense of contentment or 4 Quality of life and self image in women 4 fulfillment with personal experience in the world. Evidence indicated that dissatisfaction from appearances, may lead to higher level of depression and unwanted behaviors such as eating disorders, drug abuse as well as cosmetic surgery decisions making (Bell, et al., 2007;Harter, 2000;Polivy & Herman, 1987). It is likely therefore, that those who are dissatisfied with their body image will be more depressed (Notes, et al., 1985) which will lead to a lower quality of life. ...
The aim of the study was to examine to what extent breast augmentation contributes to body-image satisfaction and quality of life in women who had undergone breast augmentation. After signing a consent form to participate in the study, a convenience sample of 48 women before (n = 20) and after breast augmentation for cosmetic reasons (n = 28) were recruited from a plastic surgery clinic in Israel. In addition, 19 women matched according to age, education, and family status were recruited as controls. The mean age of participants was 28.2 (SD = 6.37) years, all had more than 12 years of education. Participants were administered a self-report anonymous questionnaire that included the following measures: depression, body image, and quality of life. Results indicated that body image was significantly positively correlated with quality of life among the overall sample. Following breast augmentation for cosmetic reasons, women showed lower level of depression. Quality of life was found to be influenced significantly by the level of depression and marginally by body image. Women who turned to surgery had higher level of depression compared to controls.
... First, the domain of physical appearance is qualitatively diff erent from the other self-concept domains. A second interpretation lies in the societal emphasis on appearance ( Harter, 2000 ). As Levine and Harrison (2004 ) cogently observed, media content is full of unhealthy messages about attractiveness and ideal body sizes and shapes as well as food and weight management. ...
... D uring adolescence, several domains of functioning such as academic competence, athletic competence, physical appearance, peer acceptance, close friendship, among others, seem to be integrated to give adolescents a global sense of self-worth. 1 Among all these domains, physical appearance and peer acceptance are recognized as important ones during adolescence. Self-perceived physical appearance (ie, self-perception of external appearance) plays a key role among most adolescents' lives because it has been feedback in the form of negative comments (eg, using names like ''fatty,'' ''egghead,'' or others) is a common form of verbal harassment in schools, 3 and it could have lasting negative effects on self-evaluation and consequently on the psychological adjustment and general well-being of adolescents. ...
BACKGROUND
Some adolescents are victims of negative appearance-related feedback, and this may have lasting adverse effects on their self-evaluation. The aim of this study was to examine the frequency and impact of appearance teasing across sex and weight status.METHODS
The participants were 570 Czech adolescents (47.9% girls) evaluated at age 13 during the European Longitudinal Study of Pregnancy and Childhood. Instruments used were body mass index and an adapted version of the Physical Experiences Survey that measures appearance teasing sources (parents, peers, among others), body part teased, and the impact of teasing. Chi-square test and multivariate analyses of variance were conducted to compare groups by sex and weight status. Logistic regression was then used for adjusted analyses.RESULTSGirls were more likely to report appearance teasing than boys. Overweight adolescents, both girls and boys, were more likely to be teased than non-overweight adolescents. Overweight adolescents compared with non-overweight adolescents reported higher levels of impact of body-related teasing.CONCLUSIONS
Czech adolescents continue to adopt the societal standards of Western countries, stigmatizing overweight peers. This may affect more obese adolescents. Future research has to evaluate different sources of appearance-related teasing. Interventions in schools are suitable for the reduction of appearance-related prejudices.
... Body dissatisfaction is recognised as having affective, cognitive and behavioural consequences (Thompson et al., 1999). The findings of the present thesis confirm that, in addition to being central to self-esteem (Harter, 1999(Harter, , 2000Henriques & Calhoun, 1999), and emotional adjustment (Thompson et al., 1999), body image may also be a key determinant of individuals' subjective assessments of their overall satisfaction with life, or SWB. The implications of this are clear: those who are not happy with their body, are less likely to be happy with their lives. ...
... First, the domain of physical appearance is qualitatively diff erent from the other self-concept domains. A second interpretation lies in the societal emphasis on appearance ( Harter, 2000 ). As Levine and Harrison (2004 ) cogently observed, media content is full of unhealthy messages about attractiveness and ideal body sizes and shapes as well as food and weight management. ...
-Harter´s Self-Perception Profile for Children was translated into Spanish and was administered to representative students from the Aragon Community, 1,058 elementary and junior high school children from 3rd to 8th grades, respectively. Following the same statistical procedures used by Harter, similar and interesting results were obtained for the factor structure of the specific self-perception subscales, the self-worth subscale, the correlations among specific subscales and the reliability of their items across different Spanish subsamples, using the Exploratory and Confirmatory Factor Analyses. This empirical research compare and complete other work carried out in Spain, and permitted the use of the Harter scale outside the United States, although some conceptual issues need further attention.
The main aim of this study was to analyse associations between the five-factor model personality traits and locus of control of successes and failures based on the theory of social learning and to assess whether gender moderated relationships between these variables in Polish early adolescents. The following instruments were used: the Picture Based Personality Survey for Children and the Locus of Control Questionnaire. A total of 1016 students participated in the study, including 49% boys and 51% girls. Both for girls and boys, the highest correlations were found between conscientiousness and locus of control in success situations. Neuroticism correlated negatively with the two types of locus of control. A moderating effect of gender was observed between openness to experience and locus of control of successes, and it was stronger in girls than in boys.
Acne vulgaris or “acne” is a prevalent and burdensome cutaneous condition that has been linked with unique mental health implications. Clinical (i.e., general and social anxiety, and major depression) and subclinical indicators (e.g., excessive worry, social self‐consciousness, and low self‐esteem) of internalizing disorders have been associated with acne across demographics (e.g., age groups and cultures). Considering the persistent burden of disease associated with these mental health outcomes, our primary aim was to concretely synthesize the relation between acne and internalizing symptoms. A secondary aim was to address the role that combined oral contraceptives and isotretinoin (e.g., Accutane), widely prescribed medical treatments for acne, may play in this relation as both have been linked to depression and anxiety. We discuss practical implications that may strengthen the effective biopsychosocial management of acne for suffering individuals. This review actively upholds and amplifies the call for longitudinal research that integrates the developmental psychology and dermatology literature to effectively treat acne in its entirety, including mental health.
Background: This large-scale investigation speaks to the growing concern associated with the use of social media on the psychological wellbeing of adolescents. The study explored time spent using social networking sites as a predictor of teenagers' self-esteem and appearance satisfaction and the protective role that motivation in school might play. Method: The sample comprised 10,546 adolescents at age 11 and 14 years, from the UK's Millennium Cohort Study. Multiple linear regression determined cross-sectional and longitudinal associations between use of social media and self-esteem and appearance satisfaction. Time spent using social networking sites significantly predicted teenagers' self-esteem and appearance satisfaction levels. Results: A significant interaction emerged with school motivation and social networking in relation to appearance satisfaction, suggesting that school motivation may help to buffer the negative effects of online social networking. Conclusion: In response to the ongoing concerns around the increase in adolescents who struggle with difficulties relating to their mental health, the finger of blame is frequently pointed to screen-based methods of social communication. It is anticipated that present findings will prompt the development of new interventions that target time spent using online social networking sites, particularly among teenage girls, during this new era of COVID-19-induced social isolation.
This chapter takes a biopsychosocial approach and uses the Tripartite Influence Model to explore how body image influences adolescents. Instead of focusing on solely one factor that might exacerbate body image concerns for the adolescent population, the chapter investigates various sources and mechanisms throughout an adolescent's development from which body image disturbance may originate, ranging from pubertal factors to the media. It also offers a comparison of body ideals and body image concerns across cultures, further showcasing the way body image is constructed. Research does suggest that body image can be improved. Thus, a range of interventions to promote positive body image are discussed, relying on methods from cognitive-dissonance to Dance and Movement Therapy.
This longitudinal study investigates the association between weight- and appearance-related bullying in high school and various dimensions of postsecondary school adaptation. The results showed that, in high school, weight-related bullying is more common than appearance-related bullying. Youth bullied because of weight were at higher risk of considering dropping out of college or university than peers who were bullied because of appearance. Those bullied because of overweight indicated being less academically involved than those bullied because of appearance. A cumulative effect of bullying sources was also observed, with a higher likelihood of youth bullied by two or more sources having considered dropping out and experiencing lower social integration and institutional commitment. These results highlight the need to consider weight-related bullying seriously and to intervene rapidly.
In Indonesia, it has found that small traders are still borrowing money from ‘bank plecit’ or known as loan shark although they know the risks of borrowing money from them. This happens because they are financially desperate and very little documentation is required. This study aims to explore the experiences and understandings (cognitive) of small traders and ‘bank plecit’ at Traditional Market, Bayumas, Jogjakarta from the moral judgement perspective that has influenced their personal loan agreement process. Seven ‘bank plecit’ and nine small traders from Traditonal Market, Bayumas, Puworkerto were selected for this study. A qualitative approach using one to one in-depth interview method and observation were used to gather the primary data. The findings show that small traders have a clear understanding of the risk of paying a high-interest rates when they decided to borrow money from ‘bank plecit’. Several reasons are given by both group of respondents in the area of moral judgement decision-making based on a cognitive view that can be considered as internal and external factors. For the small traders, the internal factors are related with them such as responsibility to family so that they can get out of the financial crisis easily and belief in God when they surrender with their life's hardships. While external factors show that small traders believe that it’s a rational decision because the loan process and procedures from the ‘bank plecit’ is often faster and easier than the legal banks that they considered as so straight. They considered that borrowing money from the ‘bank plecit’ was their best rational decision they can made in order to get capital for their business and for their survival. For the ‘bank plecit’, they are only concerned about profits when they agreed to lend the money to small traders, but they said that helping small traders is their responsibility. In addition, they also aware of setting high rate interest to the small traders, they assume that is the way they are helping small traders as the small traders desperately need money. They believed that cognitively, decision that they have made is right because they will help the small traders to start or continue their business. Overall, this study found that moral judgement in cognitive made by both group of respondents are based on their personal situations and lives. Keywords: moral judgement, cognitive, ‘bank plecit’, personal loan agreement
This study facilitates understanding of college students’ current and previous experiences with cyberbullying and negative social media experiences using an exploratory, qualitative design. Participants were 16 undergraduate freshman or sophomores (9 women, 7 men) at a medium-sized, United States university. A 13 question, semi-structured interview probed participants’ past and present experiences with cyberbullying. Iterative, thematic analysis was used to analyze data. Codes were clustered together based on similarity, then grouped into hierarchical themes. First, participants considered cyberbullying to be a grey area, and their definitions of cyberbullying varied considerably. Almost all participants indicated that they experienced and witnessed the most cyberbullying during adolescence. Third, participants mentioned screens and fake personas as mechanisms through which aggressors could distance themselves from victims, empowering individuals to disengage from the harm they were causing. Last, participants described a lack of education and knowledge about cyberbullying resources. Results have policy implications including the need to educate young people about cyberbullying, and, importantly, how to report cyberbully attacks.
Background: Depressive disorders have various symptom presentations, which may have complex and dynamic interactions. This study aimed to investigate the network structures underlying the symptoms and to identify the central symptoms of depression in school-aged children.
Methods: Participants were a large community sample of elementary school children aged 6 to 12 years (N = 10,233). To assess the depressive symptoms, we utilized the Children's Depression Inventory (CDI). We binarized the scores on the CDI to generate a symptom network using the eLasso method, based on the Ising model. We evaluated the centralities in individual symptoms using the network centrality indices and the associations between symptoms.
Results: Of the symptoms, loneliness, self-hatred, school dislike, and low self-esteem were the most central symptoms in the network of depressive symptoms. School work difficulty–school performance decrement, sadness–crying, self-hatred–negative body image, low self-esteem–fight, anhedonia–school dislike, sadness–loneliness, self-deprecation–school work difficulty, and school dislike–lack of friendship had significantly higher edge weight than most edges. The estimated network between the symptoms was robust to stability and accuracy tests.
Limitations: Participants were not clinical but community samples, who show lower level of symptoms.
Conclusion: The present symptom network analysis provided important insights on various interconnectivities between individual symptoms in childhood depression and on the central symptoms. In addition, our findings presented both similarities and differences with a previous Western study, thus, warranting future cross-cultural studies.
Background
Adolescents exposed to maternal depression are more vulnerable to depressive symptoms. Less is known on mediating roles of children's self-worth construction processes, particularly those related to physical appearance. This study proposes and tests appearance contingent self-worth (ACSW) as a mediator linking depressive symptoms across generations.
Methods
Our sample included 1,420 participants of the Great Smoky Mountain Study. Offspring depressive symptoms were prospectively assessed with DSM-IV for both the adolescent period (13-16) and adulthood period (19-26). Maternal depression was screened with the Short Mood and Feelings Questionnaire when the child was 13-16 years old. We used gender-stratified structural equation model in which offspring ACSW in adolescence and adulthood were specified as mediators linking maternal depression and offspring depressive symptoms in adolescence and adulthood, respectively. Mediation was tested using bias-corrected bootstrapped standard errors.
Results
ACSW is associated with higher levels of depressive symptoms in both adolescent and adult females and males, but the link between maternal depressive symptoms and ACSW is only significant among females. ACSW partially mediates the effects of maternal depressive symptoms on adolescent and adult depressive symptoms in girls.
Limitations
Measurement of maternal depression was not based on diagnosis. Generalizability is limited due to the regional sample.
Conclusion
Our findings provide evidence that daughters of depressed mothers may stake their self-worth on body image, which may partially explain some of their higher susceptibility to depression.
Early adolescents (N = 1,591; Mage = 11.698; SD = 0.892) participated in a two-wave panel study (6-month interval) to examine the longitudinal association between appearance-focused magazine exposure and social appearance anxiety. We revealed that magazine exposure positively correlated with the internalization of appearance ideals and the attribution of social rewards to attractiveness which, in turn, related to social appearance anxiety. Internalization and attribution of social rewards formed a reinforcing spiral; once internalized, early adolescents associate positive things with appearance ideals (e.g., peer acceptance) and the perception of rewards increases early adolescents' inclination to internalize ideals. Given the adverse consequences of social appearance anxiety, the findings warrant research on the role of media in the occurrence of social appearance anxiety.
The purpose of this article is to report on a study that explores the linkages among self-perception, perceptions of social support, and bullying involvement among children and youth, with a focus on how bullying victimization mediates the association of social support and self-perception. We employ Harter's multidimensional model of selfesteem (1999; 2012), which highlights the inextricable link of social support to global self-esteem but does not explore the contribution of bullying involvement to this association. Our findings indicate that social support is associated with self-perception, and that traditional victimization mediates the association between social support and selfperception for three self-perception measures: social acceptance, physical appearance, and global self-worth. Contrary to our expectations, cyberbullying victimization was not found to mediate the relationship between social support and self-perception. These findings underscore the importance of exploring both traditional bullying victimization and cyberbullying victimization in relation to social support in order to understand their effect on development and wellbeing. More broadly, this study's finding that social support was a significant buffer to bullying victimization emphasizes the necessity of developing prevention and intervention strategies which are relationship-based and implemented early in young people's lives.
A growing body of research argues that physical activity in various forms may be beneficial for the mental health of adolescents. However, less is known about why and for whom this relationship is true. This book investigates the role of the self as a possible change mechanism in the relationship between physical activity participation and mental well-being in adolescents, when also taking into account personal and contextual specificities. This book may help academics and professionals one step closer to knowing why and for whom physical activity and mental health are related, the potential optimal conditions under which these mechanisms operate, and the individual characteristics that may increase or reduce an individual’s responsiveness to mental-health gains.
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