@article{ref1,
title="Effects of contingent self-esteem on depressive symptoms and suicidal behavior",
journal="Death studies",
year="2014",
author="Lakey, Chad E. and Hirsch, Jameson K. and Nelson, Lyndsay A. and Nsamenang, Sheri A.",
volume="38",
number="9",
pages="563-570",
abstract="Contingent self-esteem, or self-worth hinged upon successfully meeting standards or attaining goals, requires continual maintenance and validation. Despite the inherent instability that accompanies contingent self-esteem, relatively little is known about how it relates to markers of mental health. A sample of 371 college students completed measures of self-esteem, contingent self-esteem, suicidal behaviors, and depression. Individuals with fragile low self-esteem, described as highly contingent, reported greater depressive symptoms and suicidal behavior. Among those with secure high self-esteem, or high yet noncontingent, depression and suicide risk were markedly lower. Therapeutically promoting positive but noncontingent self-worth may reduce poor mental health outcomes.<p /> <p>Language: en</p>",
language="en",
issn="0748-1187",
doi="10.1080/07481187.2013.809035",
url="http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/07481187.2013.809035"
}