February 15, 2007: Michael Kernis (University of Georgia)

• http://kernis.socialpsychology.org/

Authenticity and Optimal Self-esteem: Two Sides of the Same Coin?

I will present a recent multi-component conceptualization and accompanying measure of authentic functioning, consisting of awareness, unbiased processing, behavior, and relational orientation (Goldman & Kernis, 2002; Kernis, 2003; Kernis & Goldman, 2005a, b; Kernis & Goldman, 2006). I then present research that links authentic functioning to aspects of healthy psychological and close relationship functioning and to secure forms of high self-esteem. Next, I describe an interview technique designed to assess verbal defensiveness (Feldman Barrett and colleagues) and findings that authentic functioning and secure forms of high self-esteem converge to predict low levels of verbal defensiveness. I then describe research linking secure high self-esteem to lower reactivity/defensiveness in close relationships and higher perceived relationship quality. I close with discussioin regarding the interplay of authenticity and optimal self-esteem.