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Related Experiment Video

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Multimodal Protocol for Assessing Metacognition and Self-Regulation in Adults with Learning Difficulties

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Censure avoidance and self-esteem in Japan.

¹Bunkyo University, Chigasaki-shi, Japan. rabrown_05@hotmail.com

The Journal of Social Psychology

|December 9, 2008

Summary

Low Japanese self-esteem (SE) may stem from a desire to avoid social censure, not necessarily from low self-regard. Participants viewed individuals claiming high SE negatively, suggesting a motive to avoid disapproval.

Area of Science:

Psychology
Social Psychology
Cross-Cultural Psychology

Background:

Japanese culture often emphasizes modesty and self-criticism.
These traits have been proposed as explanations for lower average self-esteem (SE) scores in Japan compared to Western cultures.
Alternative explanations, such as a fundamental motive for censure avoidance, warrant investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

To investigate whether the motive to avoid social censure, rather than genuinely low self-esteem, underlies low Japanese SE scores.
To examine Japanese students' and adults' perceptions of individuals who claim high SE.

Main Methods:

Participants (101 university students, 38 adults) rated hypothetical high SE target individuals.
Ratings were based on five attribute pairs: likeable-unlikable, arrogant-modest, self-centered-considerate, not capable-capable, and bad impression-good impression.

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Main Results:

Participants consistently provided unfavorable assessments of individuals perceived to have high SE.
This suggests that claiming high SE may lead to negative social perceptions.

Conclusions:

Low Japanese self-esteem scores may arise from a desire to avoid social censure.
Perceptions that high SE claims create an unfavorable impression could be a key factor, distinct from actual self-esteem levels.