Growing Into Yourself

What happens to self-esteem as we age? A study of Finns begun in 1983, when the participants were 16, has some answers. On average, ratings of self-esteem increased steadily as teens grew into full-fledged adults. “Self-esteem is quite low in adolescence,” says Olli Kiviruusu of the National Institute for Health and Welfare in Helsinki. “In due time you learn how to navigate adult roles successfully.” The growth curve leveled out around age 32, possibly due to the emergence of work and childrearing challenges. “The 30s and 40s are a busy, at times stressful, period in life for many,” Kiviruusu says. “Perhaps there is less space for areas of personal fulfillment during this period.” But there is hope: Past research suggests self-esteem rises later in life and peaks during the senior years.