Relationship-contingent self-esteem

Relationship contingent self-esteem (RCSE) is a type of self-esteem that derives from the outcomes, process, and nature of one's romantic relationship.[1] Like other types of contingent self-esteem, it is generally linked with lower levels of self-esteem and well-being.[2] It can be unhealthy for the relationship because it paves the way for excessive bias for negative interpretations of relationship events.[2]


Past research has shown that relationship-contingent self-esteem is independent on feelings of commitment to one's relationship, closeness to one's partner, and satisfaction in the relationship.[2] Also, this research showed that it was linked to “obsessive immersion or preoccupation” with the romantic relationship.[2]

  1. ^ Knee, C. Raymond; Canevello, Amy; Bush, Amber L.; Cook, Astrid (2008). "Relationship-contingent self-esteem and the ups and downs of romantic relationships". Journal of Personality and Social Psychology. 95 (3): 608–627. CiteSeerX 10.1.1.579.4024. doi:10.1037/0022-3514.95.3.608. ISSN 1939-1315. PMID 18729698.
  2. ^ a b c d Crocker, Jennifer; Park, Lora E. (2004). "The Costly Pursuit of Self-Esteem". Psychological Bulletin. 130 (3): 392–414. doi:10.1037/0033-2909.130.3.392. ISSN 0033-2909. PMID 15122925.