Embracing Pride for Success

For many people, the idea of nurturing a high sense of self-worth may be perceived as a negative behavior that can lead to arrogance. Some even consider pride a vice or sin.

However, two scientists from Northeastern University say they have evidence that people who learn how to take pride in themselves are more likely to become leaders and earn the respect of others.

David DeSteno, an associate professor of psychology and co-author of the study, claims that "pride is quite undeserving of its negative reputation."

He and his co-author Lisa Williams created a study in which participants were placed in individual and group activities. Certain people were then given an incentive to feel proud.

In problem-solving tasks held shortly after this event, those subjects who had been given a reason to feel proud were more likely to take a dominant role. Additionally, their teammates tended to describe them in a positive light.

The researchers suggested that a feeling of pride helps a person serve as an inspiration to others and cultivate a positive attitude among a group.

"Pride can play an integral role in enhancing team functioning by fostering confidence and admiration," DeSteno explained.