Self Confidence Research Paper

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Self-confidence, n. confidence in, or reliance on, one’s own powers; self-reliance
Self-esteem, n. good opinion of oneself; self-respect (The Chambers Dictionary, 2002)
Self-confidence refers to our confidence in our ability to do an activity and belief in being able to do that activity successfully. Our self-confidence may vary from activity to activity. We may be more confident about some activity (like doing the shopping to collect ingredients for a recipe) and may be not so confident in trying out another activity (like cooking the dish for which we have collected the ingredients).
Self-esteem, on the other hand, is about what we think of ourselves. It is about our confidence in us! Self-esteem, while constantly evolving, may be considered …show more content…

If the child has developed a strong gender identity, then, the child may be more self-confident for activities that align with the expected gender roles that society defines. So, girls may be more confident in language classes and may demonstrate more ‘girly’ behaviours like being passive, quiet, compliant, gentle and collaborative. Boys may show more inclination for math and science classes and may align more with being boisterous, assertive, strong and competitive. The child chooses to do those activities and involves in those interest areas that he/she may get more opportunities to engage in, and thereby more opportunities for success. Gender stereotypes often ensure that children get more opportunities for different activities depending on their gender e.g. girls get more opportunities to play with dolls and boys with cars. Higher rate of success and greater positive feedback will serve to strengthen this gender identity and influence …show more content…

But, often, boys who were traditionally the favoured gender are at a loss how to deal with changing gender roles. Encouraging mediated discussions and communication in the classroom has helped both boys and girls understand each other better and promote healthy interactions.
Effect of cultural background on self-confidence
Cultural background would include influence of family, geographical factors, belief orientation etc. This shapes a child’s social identity and his/her place and role in society and community. The cultural background would also include kind of experiences that the child has had opportunity to be involved with. Often, children coming from dominant cultures of that place would be more self-confident than the child from minority culture. The interest repertoire would also be different. E.g. child from higher socioeconomic strata is better at academics and the child from the lower socioeconomic group is better at extra-curricular activities like games, etc.
Role of teacher/differentiated teaching:
• Promote healthy interaction and mutual trust and respect for all children and indeed all members of the school
• Encourage sense of includedness and self-worth among all members of the classroom
• Try to use a culture sensitive

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