What aspect of self-esteem is not dependent on social approval?

Internal esteem is defined as the sense of self-worth and self-acceptance that an individual feels regardless of external factors or the approval of others. This type of esteem comes from within and is built on personal values, goals, achievements, and individual characteristics. It reflects how a person views themselves based on their internal standards and beliefs rather than validation from others.

In contrast, other forms of esteem, such as external esteem, social esteem, and situational esteem, heavily rely on the views and opinions of others. External esteem involves recognition and validation from the outside world, while social esteem is connected to one’s standing in social groups and how others perceive them. Situational esteem can fluctuate based on particular experiences or contexts dictated by social interactions.

Therefore, the correct choice highlights that internal esteem is fundamentally self-derived, representing a stable source of self-worth independent of social approval or validation. This understanding is crucial in management and organizational behavior as leaders can foster an environment where individuals feel secure in their self-esteem, leading to higher levels of engagement and productivity.