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Group membership and self-esteem
From the book: Chum for Thought: Throwing Ideas into Dangerous Waters by David Satterlee
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Read or download this essay as a PDF file at: https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B4eNv8KtePyKOW4xdnRmSFR4STA/edit?usp=sharingHow Group identity affects Self-esteem, authoritarianism, Self-motivation
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| Chum For Thought: Throwing Ideas into Dangerous Waters |
Group membership and self-esteem
Individuals generally derive their identity based on the
groups to which they belong. Sometimes group membership, when the group is seen
negatively, causes the members to suffer low self-esteem. Consider the various
groups to which you belong. What instance(s) can you relate from your life in
which membership in a certain group caused you to have low self-esteem?
Having someone criticize the community to which you belong
does not have to damage your self-esteem. Your response is dependent on the
nature of your own character, values, and worldview. Sometimes, I have found
myself in groups that are regarded negatively. In each case, I have perceived
my membership as either positive or neutral, but not negatively. In hindsight,
having to face prejudice early, gave me the understanding that others may be
wrong about me and that I can maintain dignity, self-respect, and peace of mind
without
