Differences Between Self -Concept And Self – Esteem In Children

Differences between self-concept and self – esteem in children

Children, over the years, must learn to form a positive image of themselves and value themselves as people. That is, they have to develop a good self-concept and good self – esteem. These two terms are closely related, but they do not mean the same. Next, we explain the differences between self-concept and self – esteem in children.

The fact of cultivating self-love, is very important to grow healthy and happy. Therefore, families must take care of their children an education based on mutual affection and trust. Which is essential to achieve emotional well -being.

‘A person cannot be comfortable without their own approval.’ – Mark Twain

Developing

Differences between self-concept and self – esteem in children

The knowledge of oneself refers to the reflection that is made about one’s own personal abilities and characteristics. It is the way of knowing what the strengths and limits we have. In this sense, there are three dimensions that define self-knowledge:

• Cognitive.
• Descriptive.
• Valued.

Depending on the use of these dimensions, the self-concept and self – esteem of a person are specified.

Taking this into account, it can be said that self-concept is based on the cognitive and descriptive dimension. Since, it is the set of features, attributes, thoughts, skills and values ​​that are used to define themselves as an independent and different individual to others.

On the other hand, self – esteem has a multidimensional and global character. Since, it is the subjective perception and the assessment that is made of oneself, both personal and social. Therefore, it has a more emotional component.

These two constructs evolve differently depending on the evolutionary age and the experiences in everyday life. Therefore, you can talk about a series of differences between self-concept and self – esteem in children

The development of self-concept in children

The development of self-concept in children is varying, as follows, over the years: 

From 1 to 3 years: at this time the objective of the little ones is to achieve one’s own recognition. Which consists in learning to distinguish the identity of oneself and that of others. Thus, from the first year of life, children know how to recognize each other visually and little by little, they acquire the ability to identify their abilities and qualities. This is going to depend on that they become more or less sure children of themselves.

From 3 to 6 years: children at these ages, tend to be defined according to the social relationships they establish and what the authority figures say about them. Therefore, they are described based on external personal attributes and in a global way.

From 6 to 12 years: in school age, children are defined as people with feelings, thoughts and desires other than those of others. In addition, they already differentiate the psychological, physical and social characteristics. And, they use comparison to evaluate them.

From the age of 12: in adolescence young people establish a more differentiated, complex and realistic self-concept. They seek to find themselves, trying to be independent. So, they focus on discovering their tastes, interests, motivations, etc.

The development of self – esteem

self – esteem suffers variations throughout maturation. But, unlike the self-concept, self – esteem does not appear in the first years of life, but it begins after 3 years.

Preschool: During these years, children develop idealized and unrealistic self – esteem. Since they confuse the person they want to be and the one they really are. In fact, at these ages they only focus on assessing their physical and academic skills.

SCHOOL: At this time, self – esteem becomes more complex and abstract. But still without being realistic. Thus, up to 7 and 8 years self – esteem is high and positive. Then descend to stabilize. Which will depend on:

• Family education and parenting style.
• Experiences in social relationships.
• The evaluation of successes and failures.

Adolescence: In puberty self – esteem tends to decrease. This is due to social pressure to please others, especially friends. And, in addition, the physical aspect becomes more importance.  But, as they grow, and becoming adults, self – esteem usually increases realistically, valuing both capacities and personal limitations.

conclusion

In short, although the development of self-concept and self – esteem are closely linked to each other, there are multiple differences between these terms.  But, they also have aspects in common. Well, both constructs serve to help people understand their thinking, actions and behaviors. Thus, the level of self – esteem and the perception of self-concept, will mark a type of personality or another in children.