Document Type
Article
Publication Date
6-19-2025
Abstract
High self-esteem is linked to favorable outcomes including better mental health and relationships, however, its impact on cardiovascular health is less understood. This study examined the relationship between self-esteem and blood pressure levels using data from the Midlife in the United States (MIDUS) study (Mage = 54.53; 57% women; 20% non-White). We hypothesized that higher self-esteem would be associated with lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure concurrently and 10 years later. Self-esteem was measured with the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, and blood pressure was clinically assessed. Cross-sectional analyses included 1194 participants; longitudinal analyses included 566 participants. Contrary to expectations, higher self-esteem was associated with increased SBP over time (p = 0.04). However, no significant cross-sectional relationships were found. These findings suggest self-esteem may not consistently predict blood pressure, although it could be related to SBP in the long term, warranting further research into the impact of self-esteem on cardiovascular health.
Recommended Citation
Allard BC, Boehm JK. Exploring the association between self-esteem and blood pressure: A cross-sectional and longitudinal investigation. Journal of Health Psychology. 2025. https://doi.org/10.1177/13591053251344741
Copyright
The authors
Included in
Cardiovascular Diseases Commons, Health Psychology Commons, Other Mental and Social Health Commons, Other Psychiatry and Psychology Commons, Psychological Phenomena and Processes Commons
Comments
This is a pre-copy-editing, author-produced PDF of an article accepted for publication in Journal of Health Psychology in 2025 following peer review. This article may not exactly replicate the final published version. The definitive publisher-authenticated version is available online at https://doi.org/10.1177/13591053251344741.