Posted on November 20, 2001 at 9:30 a.m.

BIRMINGHAM, AL — Among children of low-income families, social support — meaningful, enduring relationships inside and outside the home — plays a significant role in enhancing self-esteem, according to a study by researchers at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB). Details of the study appear in the November issue of Psychology in the Schools.

The study has important implications for the 22 percent of children in the United States who live in poverty. “Because of poor housing conditions, nutrition and other factors associated with poverty, these children are at highest risk for learning and behavior problems,” says Kristi Guest, Ph.D., developmental psychologist with UAB’s Civitan International Research Center. “But children with higher self-esteem are much more likely to do better in school and to achieve more, and are less likely to abuse drugs.”

The study involved 64 boys and girls, primarily African Americans, ages 6 to 12, living in poverty. Questionnaires completed by the children and their primary caregivers were evaluated to assess the children’s stress, social support, adjustment and self-esteem.

Findings in regard to the positive impact of social support on self-esteem have important meaning for parents and communities. “Social organizations such as boys and girls clubs and summer camp programs can play an important role in fostering quality relationships that help to build children’s self-esteem,” Guest says. “Parents should encourage their children to be involved in these programs, since the benefit of higher self-esteem will give these children a real advantage.”