Self-Esteem in Young Adulthood through the Lens of the Sociometer Theory

This study investigates the dynamic interplay between self-esteem and behaviors, focusing on young adults aged 18-24. Utilizing an interpretive phenomenological approach (IPA), interviews with 17 college students illuminate a significant theme: Low self-esteem motivates binge drinking, driven by a conscious desire to enhance self-worth. Participants recognize the direct influence of self-esteem on their alcohol consumption, highlighting a crucial aspect of self-perception and behavioral choices. These findings emphasize the importance of addressing self-esteem issues in interventions targeting problematic alcohol use among young adults. By understanding the conscious awareness of the self-esteem-behavior relationship, tailored programs can effectively mitigate harmful behaviors and promote healthier self-perceptions, contributing to the ongoing discourse on self-esteem dynamics in developmental contexts.