Esteem refers to the regard or respect that one has for oneself or others. It encompasses feelings of self-worth and confidence, influencing how individuals perceive their abilities and value. High self-esteem can lead to positive behaviors and relationships, while low self-esteem may result in negative thoughts and actions. In psychology, esteem is often discussed in the context of Abraham Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs, where it is positioned as a crucial component for personal development. Esteem can be categorized into two types: self-esteem, which is how we value ourselves, and esteem from others, which is the recognition and respect we receive from those around us.