Young people need standards to give direction and meaning to their lives. These standards are developed through experiences within the family and peer groups and with other people who are significant in their lives. When they emulate ideals such as honesty, dependability and loyalty, young people become confident of their ability to distinguish between right and wrong. Therefore, they are able to take responsibility for their actions and to model standards for behavior. Self-esteem is increased when students are given the opportunity to examine and express their standards and aspirations.
Individuals can take an active role in working to improve their self-esteem.
Some specific actions can be related to specific elements, or conditions, of self-esteem. Addressing Specific Elements of Self-esteem Many of these actions overlap or involve more than one condition. Each person carries on an ongoing internal dialogue. This internal dialogue consists of positive and negative messages about the people and events in our world, including ourselves. If the dialogue is primarily negative, it is difficult to feel good about ourselves.