Depressive Styles, Self-Esteem Structure, and Health: A Dynamic Approach to Differential Vulnerability in Self- Criticism and Dependency
Author(s): Maarit Johnson
Abstract: Two studies (N = 180, N = 428) examined the importance of a dynamic self-esteem (SE) structure (in terms of basic and competence aspects of SE) for the depressive personality styles self-criticism and dependency. Study 2 was extended to investigate the role of self-related motivational orientations and the predictive status of the depressive styles for self-reported physical health. Overall, the results show that self-criticism is a function of SE, which is based on competence and "toxic" achievement strivings while dependency is related to a low basic sense of SE and affiliation needs. In addition, self-criticism and competence related strivings predicted poor health, over and above negative affect, whereas dependency was not associated with physical health. It is concluded that self-criticism and dependency represent distinct vulnerable personality styles in which SE structure plays a role in regulating cognitive-motivational mechanisms with relevance for adjustment and well-being.
Pages: 45-66
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