Supportive Caregiver Communication in Enhancing Adolescent Self-Esteem in Residential Care

Mohammad Ali Fikri; Ananda Dwitha Y; Muhammad Syaamil D; Vira Hawa Aprilila

doi:10.32509/wacana.v25i1.6025

Supportive Caregiver Communication in Enhancing Adolescent Self-Esteem in Residential Care

Mohammad Ali Fikri, Ananda Dwitha Y, Muhammad Syaamil D, Vira Hawa Aprilila

Abstract

Adolescents living in orphanages are vulnerable to low self-esteem due to experiences of loss, family separation, and psychosocial challenges. This study aims to examine how supportive caregiver communication contributes to the development of adolescent self-esteem at the Muhammadiyah Children Centre (MCC) KH. Mas Mansyur. Guided by Social Support Theory, this research employed a sequential explanatory mixed-methods design by combining quantitative and qualitative approaches. Quantitative data were collected using the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES) administered to 19 adolescents, while qualitative data were obtained through semi-structured interviews with 4 caregivers. The findings indicate that adolescents generally demonstrated relatively healthy levels of self-esteem, although differences appeared between male and female participants. The study identified 4 caregiver communication practices: proactive and empathetic interaction, the development of a family-like community, fair and consistent discipline, and positive narrative reframing. These practices reflect emotional, instrumental, informational, and appraisal support that strengthen adolescents’ self-liking and self-competence. The study concludes that supportive caregiver communication plays an important role in fostering adolescents’ psychological well-being and self-esteem within residential care.

Keywords

Supportive Caregiver Communication; Adolescent Self-Esteem; Social Support; Psychosocial Well-Being; Residential Care

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DOI: https://doi.org/10.32509/wacana.v25i1.6025