Parenting and Peer Influences on Italian Adolescent Self Esteem
Author:
Christine SchurawelMentor:
Enrique Ortega, Assistant Professor of Health Science, California State University Dominguez HillsSelf Esteem has been associated to many health and behavioral outcomes including obesity, sensation seeking, rebelliousness, better school performance. This study explored how parenting and peers influenced adolescent self esteem. The study was conducted among 324 youths (56% male) ranging in age from 15-20 (M = 17.29 yrs, SD = 1.61) living in northwest Italy. Results showed that higher levels of peer support were associated with higher reports of self esteem in males (β = .12, p < 0.01). In females, higher levels of parental and peer support, and lower peer control were associated with higher reports of self esteem (β = .16, p < 0.004). This study shows evidence for including parental and peer dynamics when intervening on adolescent self-esteem. Further research is needed which can further elucidate the influence and interactions of peer and parental determinants on self esteem.