Analysis

The Contingencies of Self-Worth Scale (CSWS) was designed to assess the sources from which individuals derive their self-esteem. Self-esteem may be based on various contingencies or conditions, such as acceptance from others, academic success, appearance, morality, and more.

Purpose

The primary goal of the CSWS is to provide a reliable and valid measurement of the different sources of self-esteem. The data collected can be used to understand the factors that influence self-esteem and to develop interventions aimed at improving psychological well-being and the stability of self-esteem.

Scoring

The CSWS includes statements that participants rate on a 7-point Likert scale, from 1 (strongly disagree) to 7 (strongly agree). The overall score for each contingency is obtained by summing the scores of the relevant items.

References

Crocker, J., & Wolfe, C. T. (2001). Contingencies of self-worth. Psychological Review, 108(3), 593–623.
Crocker, J., Luhtanen, R. K., Cooper, M. L., & Bouvrette, A. (2003). Contingencies of self-worth in college students: Theory and measurement. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 85(5), 894–908.
Crocker, J., Sommers, S. R., & Luhtanen, R. K. (2002). Hopes dashed and dreams fulfilled: Contingencies of self-worth and admissions to graduate school. Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin, 28(9), 1275–1286.
Park, L. E., & Crocker, J. (2008). Contingencies of self-worth and responses to negative interpersonal feedback. Self and Identity, 7(2), 184–203.
Sargent, A., Crocker, J., & Luhtanen, R. K. (2006). Contingencies of self-worth and depressive symptoms in college students. Journal of Social and Clinical Psychology, 25(6), 628–646.