RSES
Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale
Instructions: Below is a list of statements dealing with your general feelings about yourself. Please indicate how much you agree or disagree with each statement.
Scoring: Strongly Agree | Agree | Disagree | Strongly Disagree
1. I feel that I am a person of worth, at least on an equal plane with others.
2. I feel that I have a number of good qualities.
3. All in all, I am inclined to feel that I am a failure.
4. I am able to do things as well as most other people.
5. I feel I do not have much to be proud of.
6. I take a positive attitude toward myself.
7. On the whole, I am satisfied with myself.
8. I wish I could have more respect for myself.
9. I certainly feel useless at times.
10. At times I think I am no good at all.
How to Calculate Your Score
For items 1, 2, 4, 6, and 7:
Strongly Agree = 3
Agree = 2
Disagree = 1
Strongly Disagree = 0
For items 3, 5, 8, 9, and 10 (Reverse-Scored):
Strongly Agree = 0
Agree = 1
Disagree = 2
Strongly Disagree = 3
Total Score: Add up all 10 items. Your score will be between 0 and 30.
What Your Score Means
15–25: This is the "average" range for self-esteem. You generally have a balanced view of your strengths and weaknesses.
Below 15: This suggests low self-esteem. You may struggle with self-criticism or feel that you aren't enough. This is a very common reason people seek therapy!
Above 25: This indicates high self-esteem.
A Note from Vibe: Self-esteem isn't a fixed trait; it’s a relationship you have with yourself. If your score is lower than you’d like, remember that we can work on "rewiring" that internal critic to be a bit more like a friend.
Important: If you are in immediate distress or having thoughts of hurting yourself, please reach out for support. You are not alone, and help is available 24/7.
Call or Text: Dial 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741.
Emergency: Call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.
Ready to talk through these results?
Schedule a free 15-minute consultation today!
Credits & Citations
Source: Rosenberg, M. (1965). Society and the adolescent self-image. Princeton, NJ: Princeton University Press. This scale is in the public domain.
