Self-Esteem Test (Rosenberg Scale)

Assess your self-esteem using the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, the most widely used measure of global self-worth. 10 questions, takes about 2 minutes. Your answers are 100% private and never leave your browser.

Ad Space

What Is the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale?

The Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES) was developed by sociologist Dr. Morris Rosenberg in 1965 and published in his book "Society and the Adolescent Self-Image." It is the most widely used measure of global self-esteem in social science research, having been used in thousands of studies across cultures and age groups. The scale consists of 10 statements about your overall feelings of self-worth and self-acceptance, with 5 positively worded and 5 negatively worded items.

Important Note: This is a self-assessment tool, not a clinical diagnosis. Self-esteem is just one aspect of psychological wellbeing. If low self-esteem is significantly affecting your daily life, relationships, or mental health, please consider speaking with a therapist or counselor.

Why Self-Esteem Matters

Self-esteem — your overall sense of personal value and worth — influences virtually every aspect of your life. Research consistently shows that healthy self-esteem is associated with better mental health, stronger relationships, greater resilience to stress, higher motivation and achievement, and better physical health outcomes. Low self-esteem, conversely, is a risk factor for depression, anxiety, substance abuse, eating disorders, and relationship difficulties.

Ways to Improve Self-Esteem

Building self-esteem is a gradual process. Evidence-based strategies include: practicing self-compassion (treating yourself with the same kindness you would offer a friend), challenging negative self-talk, setting and achieving small goals, building competence through learning new skills, surrounding yourself with supportive people, engaging in regular physical exercise, practicing gratitude, and seeking therapy (especially CBT or self-compassion-focused therapy). Remember that self-esteem fluctuates naturally — the goal is a stable, realistic sense of self-worth, not perfection.

How Scoring Works

Each item is scored 0-3. Items 2, 5, 6, 8, and 9 are reverse-scored (negatively worded items). Total scores range from 0 to 30. Scores between 15 and 25 are considered within the normal range. Scores below 15 suggest low self-esteem. The scale has demonstrated excellent reliability and validity across diverse populations.