Low self-esteem is a miserable thing. To feel that one is inadequate, a failure, unlovable (and so on) is inherently depressing. Worse, such feelings can create a vicious cycle, undermining one’s efforts and so creating more failure and still lower self-esteem…
Could raising self-esteem across the board increase the happiness and success of the young? In the 1980s, expert opinion was that it would. The theory was that every teenager should be encouraged to have high self-esteem – and things that might undermine that (such as direct competition with others who might be more able) should be avoided in schools. The expectation was that this would raise not only happiness, but levels of achievement.
Register now, read forever
Thank you for visiting SecEd and reading some of our content for professionals in secondary education. Register now for free to get unlimited access to all content.
What's included:
-
Unlimited access to news, best practice articles and podcast
-
New content and e-bulletins delivered straight to your inbox every Monday and Thursday
Already have an account? Sign in here