More than meets the eye: The influence of implicit and explicit self-esteem on materialism

Journal of Consumer Psychology · 2011 · Volume 21 · Issue 1

DOI: 10.1016/j.jcps.2010.09.001

Abstract

Prior research has found a link between self-esteem and materialism. However, these studies examine explicit self-esteem without considering implicit self-esteem. We examine if these two forms of self-esteem jointly influence materialism. Specifically, we propose that discrepancies between implicit and explicit self-esteem are an important driver of materialism. Support for our view is presented in a series of four studies.Study 1illustrates the link between self-esteem discrepancy and materialism.Studies 2 and 3show that increases (decreases) in self-esteem discrepancies cause increases (decreases) in materialism.Study 4confirms the link between self-esteem discrepancy and the desire to self-enhance through material possessions.

Keywords

Explicit self-esteem, Implicit self-esteem, Materialism

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