PsyLab 3: Self-Esteem — How Much Do Other People Shape How We See Ourselves?

What makes us feel worthy—and why is it sometimes so hard to believe it ourselves?

Why does our sense of self-worth depend on other people’s approval? What shapes our self-esteem, and can we change the way we see ourselves?

Self-esteem influences how we experience relationships, respond to rejection, and navigate everyday life. But where does our sense of worth come from? Why can someone else’s opinion change how we feel about ourselves—and how much do our relationships shape the way we see ourselves?

At this meetup, we’ll explore the psychology of self-esteem, using psychological research as a starting point for an open, thoughtful group discussion.

📚 Before the meeting

Please read these two peer-reviewed psychology papers beforehand — both are publicly available in full text:

1. Leary, Tambor, Terdal & Downs (1995) — Self-Esteem as an Interpersonal Monitor: The Sociometer Hypothesis
2. Harris & Orth (2020) — The Link Between Self-Esteem and Social Relationships: A Meta-Analysis of Longitudinal Studies

The first paper explores the idea that self-esteem functions partly as a monitor of perceived social acceptance. The second examines how self-esteem and social relationships influence each other over time.
You don’t need to understand every detail or have a psychology background. Just read the papers with curiosity and bring your questions, thoughts, and disagreements to the discussion.

💬 What we’ll explore

Self-esteem and social acceptance: Why might rejection or belonging change how we feel about ourselves?
The two-way relationship: How do our relationships shape our self-esteem, and how does our self-esteem influence our relationships?
Our worth and other people’s opinions: Where is the line between a natural need for connection and relying on external approval to feel good enough?

🧠 Agenda

1. Participant introductions — a chance to get to know one another.
2. 10–15-minute introduction to the topic — key concepts and insights from the two papers.
3. Group discussion — exchanging perspectives, questioning assumptions, and exploring the topic together.

🔬 About Psychology Lab Berlin

Psychology Lab Berlin is a discussion club for people interested in psychology and psychotherapy.
This is not a self-help workshop, therapy group, or support group. We meet to explore psychological ideas, research, and different perspectives together.
You don’t need to be a psychologist or therapist — just come curious, read the materials beforehand, and be ready to discuss, question, and disagree.

📍 Location: Café Milagro

Bergmannstraße 12, Kreuzberg, Berlin
We’ll meet in a cozy café setting for our discussion.
There’s no entrance or venue fee. The café asks everyone to order at least one drink (tea, coffee, etc.) during the meetup. ☕
💶 Please bring some cash just in case, as card payment may not be available for smaller amounts.

Looking forward to another thoughtful PsyLab discussion! 🧠