In the study of human development, it is vital to understand one's
             self by determining an individual's self-concept of his or her self. Self-
             concept, defined as one's awareness of personal characteristics,
             attributes, and limitations, is also directly linked to the development of
             self-esteem. Self-esteem takes the idea of self-concept to a higher level
             in understanding human development: it is the evaluative component of self-
             concept. It has two kinds: the "loved and worthy" kind of self-esteem and
             competency based self-esteem. The first kind, which is often referred to
             as "feel-good" self-esteem, provides a positive view of an individual's
             self-concept primarily because the individual "feels good" about himself or
             herself. Competency-based self-esteem, meanwhile, develops positively when
             an individual feels s/he has performed or behaved well in a particular task
             or endeavor; otherwise, negative self-esteem develops.
             While in the present paradigm that American culture and society
             stands on concerning the issue of self-esteem, it is evident that what
             dominates contemporary society today is feel-good self esteem. Viewed from
             the competency-based self-esteem perspective, it is apparent that never has
             a generation had more self-esteem for less reason than the contemporary
             society. This paper argues that feel-good self-esteem creates a false
             impression of an individual realizing his/her fullest potential in the
             society, and that competency-based is the healthiest and most effective
             means by which children and even adults can develop their personalities
             based on actual behavior than perceived self-concepts that are mainly based
             from other people's judgment. Competency-based self-esteem allows room for
             improvement and realization of an individual's limitations and capabilities
             as an individual, and knowing these shall help him/her create a healthier
             and more honest per...