Self-Esteem in Early Adolescence as a Function of Position Within Olson's Circumplex Model of Marital and Family Systems

Abstract

so that variations in SEI scores could be examined in this framework. Consistent with expectations, there was systematic covariation between SEI and FACES scores. Mean SEI scores increased monotonically with increases in cohesion, while they varied in a curvilinear fashion with increases in adaptability. This latter pattern was more in line with the theoretical formulations of Olson et al. than the former one. Results of a correlational analysis between SEI scores and the "Distance from the Center" index of Olson et al., were consistent with the view that optimal functioning tended to be found towards the center, that is at moderate overall combined levels of cohesion and adaptability. These results were examined in the light of the relevant parent-child relations literature. It was noted that the most important parallel appeared to be between parental warmth and family cohesion.

Testing a dual-process family model in understanding the development of eating pathology: A structural equation modeling analysis

“…The findings that family dysfunction had a direct effect on general self-esteem deficit, and indirect effects mediated by self-esteem deficit on eating and psychiatric symptoms, are also consistent with reports which indicate that families marked by rigidity and a lack of cohesion hinder the development of self-esteem in children (Cooper, Holman, & Braithwaite, 1983;Kawash & Kozeluk, 1990;Smets & Hartup, 1988). Polivy and Herman (1987) argue that general self-esteem problems are fundamental to the development of a number of psychopathologies.…”

Building Self‐Esteem of Children and Adolescents Through Adventure‐Based Counseling

“…Although the self-esteem of children is influenced by family functioning (Briggs, 1975; Cashwell, 1995; Kawash & Kozeluk, 1990), counselors also affect the selfesteem of children through community and school-based efforts. Because of the importance of the peer group for children and adolescents, this work often occurs in group counseling settings.…”

Family Functioning and Self‐Esteem of Middle School Students: A Matter of Perspective?

“…One previous study (Kawash & Kozeluk, 1990) examined self-esteem in early adolescence as a function of family position within the Circumplex Model of Family Systems. The Circumplex Model represents the functioning of the family system on the dimensions of cohesion (emotional bonding) and adaptability (ability of a family system to change its power structure, role relationships, and relationship rules in response to situational stress) (Olson et al, 1992).…”