Factor that Affect Self-Love and it’s development throughout One’s Teenage Years
Self-love is defined as “an appreciation of one’s own worth or virtue” according to the Merriam-Webster dictionary (Merriam-Webster). In 2023, this term is widely used by the new generation. Having faced my own struggles with self-love and self-acceptance during my teenage years, I realized that many others undergo similar experiences. Numerous factors influence self-love and its development during one’s teenage years, including the relationship with parents and siblings, emotional and physical self-perception, and external influences like friends, teachers, and society (Smith). Self-love’s significance is tied directly to mental health, education, and other vital aspects of one’s life. In this paper, we will explore how these factors impact self-love and its growth, especially during adolescence.
Self-love and self-esteem are sensitive subjects, crucial in today’s society. The article “Self-Concept, Self-Image and Self-Esteem” defines self-love as “how someone sees themselves and the perception they hold about their abilities” (“Self-Concept, Self-Image and Self-Esteem”). This notion is intertwined with self-worth and self- love. During the tumultuous years of adolescence, this sense of self-love undergoes significant development influenced by a multitude of factors. Understanding these factors is essential to providing adolescents with the support and tools they need to cultivate a healthy sense of self-love .Adolescents are heavily impacted by their social environment, including family, peers, and societal norms.relationship with siblings are really important. when two siblings, specially of the same sex have disclosure between each other it can often lead to a negative outlook on themselves (Greer et al. 1567-1579). This is important because it shows how siblings relationship can change the level is someone’s self-esteem because of comparative and more problematic self- perceptions. It also shows that creating an environment where one can openly discuss their insecurities without fear can have either a positive or negative impact on a teenager. Research shows that the impact of self-disclosure between siblings is often positive and it can contribute to an adolescent’s self- perception and overall wellness . Peers also shape self-esteem. Acceptance and value from peers boost confidence, while rejection and bullying can erode it.
Mental health issues like anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem are interconnected. Poor mental health can lead to diminished self-love, and vice versa. Early intervention and mental health support are vital. positive self-esteem is not just considered a core aspect of mental well-being, but also acts as a safeguard that boosts overall health and constructive social conduct by serving as a defense against the effects of harmful influences (Mann 357).Promoting emotional intelligence, teaching coping strategies, and reducing taboos around seeking help contribute to a healthier sense of self-love. In the article “Build Confidence & Overcoming Low Self-Esteem in Teenagers,” various strategies are presented for fostering positive mental health to prevent challenges related to self-love and self-esteem. Some of these methods include enhancing teenagers’ decision-making skills, soliciting their opinions, offering sincere compliments, setting goals, and engaging in self-care. The specified techniques outlined in the article have demonstrated an ability to enhance teenagers’ self-love and positively influence its development.
Adults, such as parents, teachers, and mentors, serve as role models for teenagers . Their behavior, communication style, and attitudes toward themselves and others influence how teenagers perceive self-love. Adults who show self-compassion, resilience, and healthy self-esteem provide valuable examples for adolescents to emulate. However, unrealistic expectations and excessive pressure from adults can negatively affect self-esteem. “Everyone has a specific potential for doing the best they can, and they should be given a chance to discover that potential independently.” This shows the individuality of each teenager and emphasizes that not all adolescents will attain the goals their parents may have for them (“Build Confidence & Overcoming Low Self-Esteem in Teenagers”).Recognizing each teenager’s potential is important.For example, not everyone will be able to be a straight A student but recognizing that a child it’s giving a certain project their all can help them have a more positive perception of themselves, leading to an overall high self-esteem level. This all correlates to how the way adults act towards a teen can impact a teen’s self- image. The research paper “Daily Affect and Self-Esteem in Early Adolescence: Correlates of Mean Levels and Within-Person Variability” posits that “Self-esteem has been seen as a sociometer or internal gauge that responds to evaluations by others, and is sensitive to peer acceptance and rejection (sociometer theory; Leary & Baumeister, 2000).”(Nelis and Bukowski).This highlights how self – love/ self- esteem can fluctuate when being criticized or praised by adults and other peers. The study also emphasizes the significant impact that adults, particularly those in closer relationships with the adolescent
While the importance of self-love during adolescence it’s widely talked about , it’s worth considering that an excessive focus on self-love could potentially lead to self-centeredness and disregard for others. Excessive self-love that becomes toxic has the potential to harm interpersonal relationships due to its tendency to give an individual excessively self-focused and unwillingness to acknowledge the emotional need of others. This type of behavior can result in conflicts and strained connections. Furthermore, this form of self-love can prevent others from forming meaningful bonds and placing trust in the individual who displays these toxic tendencies (“Can Self Love Be Toxic?”).Building a healthy self-image is crucial, an exclusive emphasis on self-love might neglect the importance of empathy, compassion, and understanding for those around us. Encouraging a balance between self-care and care for others could foster a more holistic and socially responsible approach to personal development, ensuring that adolescents not only value themselves but also contribute positively to their communities and relationships.
In conclusion, the development of self-love during adolescence is a complex process shaped by several factors, including coping skills, mindset, mental health, and role models. These elements collectively influence teenagers’ self-perception and worth. Addressing these factors is crucial for promoting a healthy sense of self-love in teenagers. By offering support, guidance, and a nurturing environment, adults play a crucial role in helping teenagers develop a strong sense of self-worth that positively impacts their future.
Work Cited
Nelis, Sabine, and William M Bukowski. “Daily Affect and Self-Esteem in Early Adolescence: Correlates of Mean Levels and within-Person Variability.” Psychologica Belgica, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 18 Feb. 2019, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6625554/.
Greer, K.B., Campione-Barr, N. & Lindell, A.K. Body Talk: Siblings’ Use of Positive and Negative Body Self-Disclosure and Associations with Sibling Relationship Quality and Body-Esteem. J Youth Adolescence 44, 1567–1579 (2015). https://doi-org.remote.baruch.cuny.edu/10.1007/s10964-014-0180-1
“Self-Concept, Self-Image and Self-Esteem.” Tutor2u, www.tutor2u.net/hsc/reference/self-concept-self-image-and-self-esteem. Accessed 18 Aug. 2023.
“Build Confidence & Overcoming Low Self-Esteem in Teenagers.” At Risk Youth Programs, 18 July 2023, atriskyouthprograms.com/low-self-esteem-in-teenagers-2/.
ecka-Pikul, Marta, et al. “Change and Consistency of Self-Esteem in Early and Middle Adolescence in the Context of School Transition – Journal of Youth and Adolescence.” SpringerLink, Springer US, 27 May 2019, link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10964-019-01041-y.
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Mann, Michal (Michelle), et al. “Self-Esteem in a Broad-Spectrum Approach for Mental Health Promotion.” OUP Academic, Oxford University Press, 1 Aug. 2004, academic.oup.com/her/article/19/4/357/560320.
– Merriam-Webster Dictionary, s.v. “Self-Love.” Merriam-Webster, www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/self-love.
“Can Self Love Be Toxic?” Selfpause, 6 Jan. 2023, selfpause.com/self-love/why-can-self-love-be-toxic/#:~:text=Unhealed%20parts%20of%20self%2Dloving,re%2Devaluation%20of%20core%20values.