Finding “Just-Right” Self-Esteem: Syncretic Self-Esteem Promotes Intrapersonal and Interpersonal Well-Being

This research focuses on healthy form of contingent self-esteem and its relevance in understanding human well-being in terms of both personal and relational existence. The form of self-esteem that relies on the integration between uniqueness and similarity was conceptualized as syncretic self-esteem (SSE). We propose that the moderate SSE, which removes the effects of self-esteem depending greatly on either uniqueness or similarity, facilitates both inner and relational harmony. Study 1 provides evidence of the validity and reliability of the three-factor Syncretic Self-Esteem Scale (SSES) (n = 2725). Study 2 reveals that moderate SSE relates to harmony within an individual (n = 632); using a longitudinal design, Study 3 finds that moderate SSE predicts a harmonious state between individuals and their surroundings through decreased self-ambivalence (n = 124). With finding out a form of moderate self-esteem, the present research contributes to promoting people’s global well-being in the perspective of self-esteem.