A Comparative Analysis of Self-Esteem and Rejection Sensitivity Across Generational Cohorts

Over the decades, the field of Psychology has explored how individuals respond to self-esteem and rejection sensitivity through their actions throughout the time. This study examines the psychological constructs among Generation Z and Millennials in South India, highlighting potential cultural and age-related differences. The investigation aims to explore the association between self-esteem and rejection sensitivity among Gen Z and Millennials aged 12 to 43. The sample size of N=300 was drawn from Gen Z and Millennials of the same age group living in Kerala, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu. The study utilized two psychometric tools: Rosenberg’s Self-esteem Scale and the Rejection Sensitivity Questionnaire. The data was examined with SPSS with descriptive statistics, correlation and Mann Whitney U test. The data show that there is a statistically insignificant negative association between self-esteem and rejection sensitivity. It also revealed that there is no gender difference in self-esteem and rejection sensitivity, however there is a significant difference between self-esteem and rejection sensitivity among Gen Z (12-27) and Millennials (28-43).