Self-Esteem Test (Rosenberg Scale)

The Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES) is a 10-item measure of global self-esteem. Scores 15–25 are considered within the normal range; below 15 indicates low self-esteem. One of the most widely used scales in social psychology research. Rosenberg (1965). Public domain.

What is Self-Esteem?

Self-esteem refers to the overall subjective sense of personal value and worth, how positively or negatively a person regards themselves. Rosenberg (1965) defined self-esteem as "a positive or negative attitude toward the self", not arrogance or superiority, but a realistic appreciation of one's own value as a person. Healthy self-esteem is characterized by stability (not fluctuating dramatically with external events), contingency (not entirely dependent on performance or approval), and authenticity (based on genuine self-knowledge rather than inflation).

The Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES), developed at Columbia University in 1965, is the most widely used self-esteem scale in psychology research, cited in tens of thousands of studies. It consists of 10 items (5 positively worded, 5 negatively worded) rated on a 4-point scale from Strongly Agree to Strongly Disagree. The scale is in the public domain and freely available for research and clinical use.

Low self-esteem is a transdiagnostic risk factor strongly associated with depression, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, social withdrawal, and academic/occupational underperformance. However, the relationship is bidirectional, depression also reduces self-esteem. Importantly, research by Baumeister and colleagues found that inflated or unstable self-esteem is associated with more aggression and poorer interpersonal outcomes than low self-esteem, challenging the popular belief that high self-esteem is always beneficial.

Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale

Rate each statement based on how you feel about yourself right now. The RSES is in the public domain. Rosenberg (1965).

Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale © Morris Rosenberg (1965). In the public domain. Negatively worded items (2, 5, 6, 8, 9) are reverse-scored: SA=1, A=2, D=3, SD=4. The RSES is not a diagnostic tool, it measures general self-esteem as a personality trait.

RSES Score Reference

Rosenberg (1965). Normative data from large population samples. Scores are influenced by age, gender, and cultural context.

Score Interpretation

Self-Esteem Dimensions

Correlates of Low vs. High Self-Esteem

Self-esteem can be developed through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (identifying and challenging self-critical beliefs), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (defusing from self-critical thoughts; values-based living), Schema Therapy (targeting early maladaptive schemas like defectiveness/shame), compassion-focused approaches (self-compassion as an alternative to self-esteem), and behavioral experiments (testing negative self-predictions through action). Stable self-esteem grounded in self-acceptance is associated with better outcomes than performance-based or approval-dependent self-esteem.

Behavioral Health Outcome Monitoring

PHQ-9, GAD-7, and self-esteem outcomes, integrated monitoring for behavioral health programs supporting depression, anxiety, and self-concept interventions.