Relationships with peers are often foremost in 12-year-old Jonathan's mind and can have a huge impact on his emotional state. For example, when classmates treat him well, he's quite happy and self-assured, but when someone snubs him or makes fun of him, he becomes very depressed and thinks, "No one likes me." Which one of the following concepts related to motivation best explains Jonathan's significant mood swings?
A) contingent self-worth
B) self-handicapping
C) self-actualization
D) need for achievement

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Contingent self-worth refers to the belief that one's self-worth is dependent on the approval of others or on external outcomes, such as success or failure. Jonathan's mood is heavily dependent on how his peers treat him, suggesting that his self-worth is contingent on their approval. When they treat him well, he feels validated and happy, but when they snub him, he feels worthless and depressed. This concept best explains his significant mood swings.

Relationships with Peers Are Often Foremost in 12-Year-Old Jonathan's Mind