SELF-ESTEEM AND SELF-ASSERTIVENESS AMONG ADOLESCENTS: A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF GENDER DIFFERENCES 0 0

Abstract

Adolescence is a significant phase of development, as it represents a critical period of transition from childhood to early adulthood, spanning approximately from 10 to 19 years. During this period, adolescents undergo significant physical, emotional, cognitive, and social changes that shape their identity, self-concept, and interpersonal relationships. In this context, self-esteem and self-assertiveness are two essential constructs that help adolescents to communicate effectively and thrive in their personal and social life.

This study aims to investigate the relationship between self-esteem and self-assertiveness in adolescence while exploring the role of gender. The study included 60 adolescents (30 boys and 30 girls) aged between 15 to 18 years, who were selected from Delhi-NCR. The participants completed two self-report questionnaires, namely the Rosenberg Self-esteem Scale and Rathus Self-assertive Scale. The Rosenberg Self-esteem Scale is a widely used instrument that measures global self-worth, including both positive and negative self-evaluations. On the other hand, the Rathus Self-assertive Scale measures the degree to which an individual is willing to express his/her feelings, thoughts, and needs to others in various social situations.

The findings of the study revealed a weak positive correlation between self-esteem and self-assertiveness in adolescence indicating the presence of other factors that might influence the relationship between self-esteem and self assertiveness. Interestingly, the study also found a significant gender disparity in self-esteem levels. Specifically, girls had significantly lower self-esteem than boys, which is consistent with previous research on gender differences in self esteem. This finding is noteworthy as low self-esteem has been linked with a range of negative outcomes such as depression, anxiety, poor academic performance, and risky behaviors. Therefore, it is crucial to address the gender disparities in self-esteem levels to promote positive developmental outcomes in adolescents.

In contrast, no significant gender differences were observed in self-assertiveness. This finding suggests that both boys and girls are equally willing to express themselves in various social situations, indicating that self-assertiveness is a universal construct that is not influenced by gender.