Your friends Frank and Kathie have a young son, Jessie. Frank and Kathie are concerned that Jessie will grow up feeling good about himself

Question

They are wondering if there is anything that they can do that will increase the chances that Jessie will have high levels of self-esteem. What can you tell Frank and Kathie about the factors that influence self-esteem?
What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

A good answer will be similar to the following:
Many aspects of parenting are related to children's self-esteem. Children have higher levels of self-esteem when their parents are affectionate with them, are involved with them, set rules for them, and discuss rules and discipline with them. The school environment also influences self-esteem. Children who work hard in school, who get along with their peers, who avoid disciplinary problems, and who participate in extracurricular activities have higher levels of self-esteem. Also, a nurturing school environment enhances self-esteem. In other words, Frank and Kathie can contribute to Jessie's self-esteem by practicing the type of parenting that is associated with high self-esteem, by encouraging Jessie to work hard and avoid problems at school, by encouraging Jessie to participate in extracurricular activities, and by choosing a school that provides a nurturing environment.