Self-Esteem: What defines Middle School

Students in Middle School are the most vulnerable to spoiling their self esteem. These students get affected quickly because they are changing to a new school environment. They are adjusting to the physical and emotional changes going throughout their bodies. Their feeling of being accepted comes from their friends and not adults, which was the case at a younger age.

According to Mary Pat McCartney, a counselor and former vice president of the American School Counselors Association, “no matter how much students have been swamped with praise by well-meaning parents, what their friends think of them is most important. Early on, it’s parents who affirm the young person’s worth, then it’s the teacher. In middle school, peer esteem is a powerful source of one’s sense of self.”

Michelle Borba, who is an author on self-esteem and achievement in children gives a list of things educators can do to improve the self esteem in students. The list, taken from this website , says:

"1)Mentor a child. Find one student who looks as though he or she needs a connection and just take a little more time (even one minute a day) to find a positive moment.

2)Connect with your team about a student. Pass on concerns to at least one other staff member so you’re both on the same page. You can then reinforce the same positive traits about a student together and optimize the effort.

3)Reframe children’s images of themselves. Find one positive trait that is earned and deserved—artistic, great smile, kind heart—and let the student be aware of it. Reframing an image generally takes 21 days, so reinforce the same trait 10 seconds a day for 21 days.

4)Turn students on to a great book, Web site, hobby, or a club that might capitalize on their natural interests or strengths.

5)Make yourself available. Give students your e-mail address and let them know special times you can be reached."