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Self-esteem in adolescent females
Frank M Biro1, Ruth H Striegel-Moore, Debra L Franko
1Division of Adolescent Medicine, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio 45229, USA. frank.biro@cchmc.org
Summary
This study found that race and body mass index (BMI) significantly impact adolescent girls' self-esteem over time. Self-esteem remained stable, but lower BMI and being Black were associated with higher self-worth.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Psychology
- Adolescent Health
- Sociology of Race
Background:
- Self-esteem is a critical predictor of life satisfaction.
- Understanding factors influencing self-esteem during adolescence is crucial for well-being.
Purpose of the Study:
- To longitudinally examine changes in self-esteem among adolescent girls.
- To investigate the influence of race and body mass index (BMI) on self-esteem development.
Main Methods:
- Recruited girls aged 9-10, followed until age 22.
- Administered the Harter Self-Perception Profile (Global Self-Worth Scale) biennially.
- Utilized regression modeling to analyze age, developmental phase, race, and BMI interactions.
Main Results:
- Higher self-worth was observed in Black compared to White women, and with lower BMI.
- Significant interactions were found between age, race, and BMI, and between race and developmental phase.
- Self-esteem demonstrated significant tracking over time and across developmental phases.
Conclusions:
- Race and BMI are significant predictors of self-esteem in adolescent girls.
- Self-esteem is a stable trait throughout adolescence, similar to other personality characteristics.
- Lower self-esteem may heighten adolescent vulnerability to risky behaviors.
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