The Investigation Related to the Impact of Cognitive Ability on Self-Esteem

Abstract

Cognitive ability's underexplored relationship with self-esteem—defined as the self-evaluative component reflecting perceived competence and worth—was investigated using National Longitudinal Survey of Youth (NLSY) cross-sectional data. The theoretical foundation of this study draws on William James's view that self-esteem stems from the experience of achieving important life goals, a view that continues to influence modern psychology. Through the multiple linear regression analysis of 4,488 observations, Armed Forces Qualification Test (AFQT) scores were modeled as predictors of self-esteem scores, with age dichotomization (≥25 years vs. <25 years) tested as a potential moderator via interaction terms. The experimental results indicated a statistically significant positive association between higher AFQT scores and increased self-esteem. Neither the age dummy variable nor its interaction with the AFQT demonstrated statistical significance. These findings contribute to the ongoing debate about the antecedents of self-esteem, highlighting the importance of cognitive abilities as a foundational psychological resource.