A parent’s role in the emergence of a child’s self-esteem

People are used to thinking that kids age 5 have no understanding or concept of “self,” or the “overall goodness” of the self. However, recent studies show that these children have that sense already. A 2016 research suggests that most children have already developed an overall positive sense themselves by the age of 5, and that remains somewhat stable all throughout their lives. 

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As dynamic beings, humans can adapt wherever they are. Children, of course, are not an exemption. Parents play a vital role in shaping their children, with their daily actions and decisions being observed by their little ones. The first five years of a child’s life is their foundation. They internalize the love that others have for them as their love for themselves. 

In these years, the warm and supportive connections play a prominent role in their development. These relationships remain over their lifespan, and the adults around them make these connections. Parents and teachers must know their roles in building a child’s self-esteem. 

A recent study also reveals that high self-esteem was connected to having strong gender identity and preference for their own gender. This suggests that a kid’s self-esteem is linked to other formative parts of their personality. Although development is non-stop, kids will be founded on either solid or unstable ground if they feel a lack in their support system as they grow. This doesn’t mean that maturation and experiences can't change it, but rather that it does start earlier than formerly thought.

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Dr. Wayne Imber is a retired professor who specializes in developmental and social psychology. He taught at many undergraduate and masters programs throughout Arizona, Chicago, and Massachusetts. Visit Dr. Imber’s blog for more psychology updates.