Work Experiences and Self-Esteem Development: A Meta-Analysis of Longitudinal Studies

Theory suggests that people’s work experiences influence their self-esteem and, vice versa, influences experiences. This meta-analysis of longitudinal studies synthesizes the available evidence on prospective effects between and self-esteem, controlling for prior levels outcomes. The following variables were examined: job satisfaction, success, income, resources, stressors, employment status. analyses based 30 independent samples, including data from 53,112 participants. Mean age ranged 17 to 64 years, spanning most life. For each variable, we computed random-effects models with standardized regression coefficients as effect size measure. Results suggested reciprocal self-esteem. later (point estimates .05 .10) slightly larger than .02 .05). Moderator relation satisfaction indicated did not differ across age, gender, sample type, time lag. Overall, findings support corresponsive principle personality development suggest domain are interdependent.