Grade level differences in factors of self-esteem.

Investigated the construct validity of the Coopersmith Self-Esteem Inventory. Factor analyses were performed using approximately 1,500 students in public schools in each of Grades 4-8. 3 factors emerged in the grade-level analyses that were related to the Self subscale proposed by S. Coopersmith. 2 factors represented negative attitudes toward the self, while 1 factor represented positive attitudes. Items that loaded into these factors were moderately congruent with the subscale items. 2 factors emerged related to the Home subscale. Items that loaded into these factors were highly congruent with the subscale items. 2 factors expressing bipolar attitudes emerged that were related to the School subscale. The items that loaded into these factors were moderately congruent with the subscale items. One factor emerged that expressed positive attitudes toward the self derived from peers. This factor was related to the Peer subscale through a moderate amount of common items. Grade-level differences were observed in the comparative amount of variance accounted for by factors, as well as the occurrence of factors. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)