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Abstract
Aim: To identify and describe gender-related differences in the self-esteem and optimism levels of rural adolescents. Background: Self-esteem and optimism have been broadly examined and are associated with health-practices, social interaction, attachment, resiliency, and personal identity. Information describing the relationship of self-esteem and optimism as it relates to gender is limited. Methods: Using a cross-sectional survey design, students (N = 193) from three high-schools in rural Pennsylvania, USA completed the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale and the Optimism Scale-Life Orientation Test-Revised as part of a National Institute of Health, National Institute of Nursing Research funded study. Results: Both instruments’ mean scores were in the range of average for this population, with females scoring lower than males in both self-esteem (p < 0.0001) and optimism (p < 0.0001). The results of this study have nursing implications for evidenced based interventions that target self-esteem and optimism. Attention to self-esteem and optimism in female youth is recommended.