Participation in religious activity is the strongest influence on high self-esteem among American adolescents.

In a recent study, teens who rated themselves highly in religious attendance were more likely to rate themselves as having high self-esteem.

The study looked at data on more than 1,200 eighth-graders who were surveyed on 300 different variables by the University of Michigan Survey Research Center in 1999. Students were asked whether they agreed with statements such as "I take a positive attitude toward myself" and "Sometimes I think that I am no good at all."

Religious involvement was measured by how often the children reported attending church. Those who reported low attendance were more likely to respond to negative statements, while those who reported frequent attendance were more likely to agree with the more positive statements about themselves.

Religion is positive for kids because they're told they are worthwhile and that someone cares about them. The way we feel about ourselves is a reflection of the way we have been treated.

Another reason for the link between religious participation and self-esteem, the researchers noted, might be that religious activities are often something a family does together.

A strong family connection is likely to be linked to high self-esteem.

Annual Meeting American Psychological Association San Francisco August 26, 2001