Re:self-esteem

I suppose you are asking in reference to Adlerian theory. I would think that the greater the social interest in the adolescent the greater the qualities that are often associated with "self-esteem." Social interest is an Adlerian term to indicate willingness to accept common since over private since and self interest. It is a perception of equality with fellow beings and the world, tolerance for difference, and valuing of diversity. It also includes a goal to cooperate creatively for the common good. An adolescent with low "self- esteem" would be seen as discouraged and overcome by their inferiority complex. It is the responsibility of parents to nurture social interest in children. If your measure of intimacy includes a feeling of equality, recognition of individuality, desire for cooperation, and a willingness to seek for a common understanding, then yes, this kind of family intimacy is necessary for "self-esteem" development. Necessary but not sufficient. The home cannot be a closed system. The home with social interest embraces the world and the people in it and the parents actively introduce children to the world and the people in it.

There are some good standard measures of social-interest. It would be interesting to see how they correlate with the popular self-esteem scales. Have you selected the measures you are going to use or are you starting from scratch?

Craig

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