Self-Image and Self-Esteem Self - Thesis

One criticism however is that while the information is informative, it is at times a bit too concise and inadequate in terms of the complexity and numerous variables related to self-esteem and self-image issues. The article also deals with important aspects such as the way that beliefs and patterns of thought can create low self-esteem. The most positive and enlightening aspect of the article is the attention that is given to various ways of improving self-esteem. This also refers to an interesting technique known as "Thought Stopping," which is a conscious process of curtailing negative thoughts which tend to increase feelings of low self-esteem. Overall this is an impressive site and provides some topical and interesting information.

4. Nelson, M.H. (1994). The Self in the System: A Revision of the Three R's in Response to Relevant Research. Education, 114(3), 384+.

A central issue in the literature on self-esteem and self-image is the way that these factors impact the individual at school. Nelson, (1994) expands on this aspect and this article focuses on the interaction between the self and the social and educational environment. More significantly, the article explores the interaction between the perception of self or self -- image and the educational institution. The article also relates this self-perception to the issue of the degree of perfection or success that the individual achieves. This refers to the problem of self-efficacy. The article also deals with the importance of self-image in the modern school system. "Students come to school possessing an image of themselves and the interaction with the institution may stabilize or revise their self-perceptions" (Nelson, 1994, p.384). The author also refers to the fact that self-esteem may be frustrated as a result of indifference, academic failure, or an atmosphere that doesn't convey trust. "The organization of the school often limits sufficient esteem to outstanding performance in academic or athletic areas "(Nelson, 1994, p.384). In particular the study notes the importance of environment and setting in the development of positive self-image. This study adds to the information on this subject in that is also relates self-esteem to academic achievement and success. This is a well written and cogent article that highlights the important area of interaction between educational advancement and the self-image that is created in a social and institutional context.

5. Orenstein, Peggy. 1995. " Schoolgirls: Young Women, Self-Esteem, and the Confidence Gap." New York .Anchor.

This is a book that has been acclaimed for its insight into the way that young girls perceive themselves and their self-image in a school environment. Orenstein's work also explores self-esteem in women who grow up in a male-dominated educational system. The study refers to the American Association of University Women's 1990 study "Shortchanging Girls, Shortchanging America." This study surveyed the attitudes of 3,000 young boys and girls and their general attitudes towards their school and society. The book takes as its starting point the very high decline in self-esteem that has been found to occur among young adolescent girls. The author applies these findings to female students in two California schools. Among the many aspects of self-esteem investigated in this text is the connection between low self-image and eating disorders like Bulimia and Anorexia Nervosa. Orenstein relates purging and gorging among young girls to low self-esteem. This study is also valuable in that it relates self-esteem to larger issues such as the affect that the media and advertising can have on self-image. Another significant finding of the research is that the sense of identity and indivudualtiy among girls was often reduced by conforming to male-centered views and attitudes. This also relates to the image of the "ideal women" that is projected in the media and which negatively affects self-esteem and self-worth among girls who cannot meet these unrealistic standards. This book is a significant contribution to the research into the way that society, and male-centered education and media impact the self-image and esteem of the adolescent girl.

Bibliography

Baldwin, S.A., & Hoffmann, J.P. (2002). The Dynamics of Self-Esteem: A

Growth-Curve Analysis. Journal of Youth and Adolescence, 31(2), 101+.

Halliday, N. (1999). Developing Self-Esteem through Challenge Education

Experiences. JOPERD -- The Journal of Physical Education, Recreation & Dance, 70(6), 51+.

Nelson, M.H. (1994). The Self in the System: A Revision of the Three…