Self-Esteem in Black Male Children

According to Deaux and Wrightsman (1984), the thoughts an individual has about himself comprise the general self-concept which, itself, can be divided into two broad categories: (1) self-esteem (one's evaluation or sense of personal worth); and (2) feelings of competence (one's sense of personal ability). Since the undertaken study focuses on contributors and determinants of self-esteem in young, Black, male children, this section of the study provides context to the research by examining the general literature on the two primary components of self-concept.

Self-Esteem Component 1: Self-Esteem

The existing literature on self-esteem in children is substantial. Hansford and Hatie (1982) reviewed over 128 studies examining for relationship between self-esteem, academic achievement, and academic performance. According to the authors, the studies evidenced large variation in observed correlations with coefficients ranging from -.77 to .96. However, the average correlation tended to be both positive and low (r=.26).

Hansford and Hatie further observed that a number of personal factors contributed to the magnitude of observed correlations. These factors included such variables as: (1) grade level; (2) socioeconomic status; and (3) ethnic background. Also, the type of test used to measure self-esteem was found to influence the magnitude of observed correlations, indicating that test specificity must be reckoned with in examinations of c

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Category: Psychology - S