An Indian Perspective of Self-Esteem

Résumé

This article discusses the concept of self-esteem within the context of the Indian perspective of the wholeness of life. The authors integrate the Indian symbol of the Medicine Wheel, representing the whole life context, with self-esteem as a way of understanding the child’s development within his or her social context. Conditions for self-esteem are associated with the four directions of the Medicine Wheel and common Indian symbolism and interpreta­tions of these directions are presented. Self-esteem is described in terms of four social condi­tions, that is, power, uniqueness, connectiveness, and models necessary to the development of positive self-esteem in children. A model of self-esteem, differentiated from self-concept, includes constructs of self-worth and self-efficacy. Considerations, concerns, and sugges­tions for promoting positive self-esteem are discussed under each condition. The Medicine Wheel, shown as intact, reflecting high self-esteem contrasted with broken, reflecting low self-esteem, is used to portray positive individual development.