Characteristics of authentic self-esteem of violent juvenile delinquents in Thailand

Abstract

Violent juvenile delinquents often have a problem with self-esteem by acting like people with high self-esteem but in an unstable way. The aim of the study was to investigate the characteristics of authentic self-esteem of male violent juvenile delinquents. A mixedmethods study was conducted by using the Multidimensional Self-Esteem Inventory, followed by an in-depth interview and observation. The results indicated that there were 3 characteristics of authentic self-esteem of male violent Thai juvenile delinquents (a) willingness to improve shortcomings, (b) trying to control oneself by living within reality, and (c) being oneself by trying to be less noticeable. Moreover, from a humanistic perspective, there were 3 individual characteristics: (a) readiness for self-disclosure, (b) affective expression, and (c) authenticity. Consequently, these characteristics should be encouraged by parents and teachers to generate a process of transformative learning. © 2018 American Psychological Association.