The hierarchical structure of the physical self: An idiographic and cross‐correlational analysis

Abstract

This study investigated the hierarchical structure of global self‐esteem and physical self over time by focusing on intra‐individual dynamics. Although the hierarchical model has been studied and validated from a nomothetic point of view, validation from an idiographic approach is important as well to demonstrate its maintenance within individuals, since its functioning depends on individual and dynamic processes. Eleven participants (mean age: 33.9 years ( 15.0) completed a short version of the Physical Self Inventory on home computers twice a day (between 7:00 and 9:00 and 19:00 and 21:00) over a three‐month period. This inventory included six scales: global self‐esteem, physical self‐worth, physical condition, sport competence, physical strength, and attractive body. Cross‐correlational and partial cross‐correlational analyses were performed at the individual level for the collected time series. The results validated the hierarchical structure of the physical self in most participants and thus confirmed the nomothetic validation procedures. This study showed that global self‐esteem and physical self‐worth present individual hierarchical structure over time. It further demonstrated that an idiographic approach provides a potent means to better understand the functioning of psychological constructs such as physical self.