Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale

Original Study

The scale was developed by the sociologist Morris Rosenberg in 1965 based on data from 5,024 adolescents from 10 randomly selected schools in New York State. It has now become a widely used self-esteem measure in social-science research.

The scale determines individual self-worth by measuring both positive and negative feelings about the self.

Scoring method:

■ For items 1,2,4,6,7: Strongly Agree (3), Agree (2), Disagree (1), and Strongly Disagree (0).

■ For items 3,5,8,9,10 (reversed in valence): Strongly Agree (0), Agree (1), Disagree (2), and Strongly Disagree (3).

Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale Interpretation:

■ 0-15 Low Self-Esteem

■ 15-25 Normal range

■ 25-30 High Self-Esteem

Psychometric properties

This measure has been administered across many populations, over 53 nations, age ranges, and races. Studies have demonstrated both a unidimensional and a two-factor structure to the scale. Each of the 10 items of the scale was shown to be differentially related to self-esteem.

Self-esteem conclusions

A study by Baumeister 2003 on self-esteem and interpersonal happiness, health and success has led to the following conclusions:

■ Only a modest correlation was found between self-esteem and school performance thus there is not a strong indication that high self-esteem leads to good performance;

■ Correlations between job performance in adults and self-esteem vary widely, with the direction of causality yet to be established. However, occupational success may boost self-esteem rather than the reverse;

■ The claims that people with greater levels of high-esteem tend to be more likable and attractive, to forge better relationships, and create a better impression on others have been disconfirmed;

■ Self-esteem has not been shown to predict the quality or duration of relationships;

■ Neither high nor low self-esteem is a direct cause of violence;

■ The highest and lowest rates of cheating and bullying were found in different subcategories of high self-esteem;

■ Self-esteem was found to be in a strong relation to perceived happiness although causality is yet to be established; But high self-esteem was found to lead to happier outcomes regardless of stress or other circumstances.

References

Original reference

Rosenberg M. Rosenberg self-esteem scale (RSE). Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. Measures Package, 1965; 61.

Rosenberg M. Society and the Adolescent Self-Image. 1989 Revised edition. Middletown, CT: Wesleyan University Press.

Validation

Martin-Albo, J., Nuniez, J. L., Navarro, J. G., & Grijalvo, F. The Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale: translation and validation in university students. Span J Psychol. 2007; 10(2), 458-467.

Myers, Kathleen, & Winters, Nancy C. Ten-year review of rating scales. II: Scales for internalizing disorders. Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. 2002; 41(6), 634-659.

Other references

Gray-Little, B., Williams, V.S.L., & Hancock, T. D. An item response theory analysis of the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale. Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin. 1997; 23, 443-451.

Baumeister, R. F., Campbell, J. D., Krueger, J. I., & Vohs, K. D. Does High Self-Esteem Cause Better Performance, Interpersonal Success, Happiness, or Healthier Lifestyles? Psychological Science in the Public Interest. 2003; 4, 1-44.