Self-Esteem as a Predictor of Romantic-Relationship Involvement among Indian Young Adults: A Cross-Sectional Analysis

Self-esteem plays a critical role in emotional functioning and interpersonal behavior, yet its association with romantic relationships during emerging adulthood remains underexplored in India. This cross-sectional online survey of 386 Indian young adults (18–25 years) assessed global self-esteem using the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale and examined its relationship with voluntary romantic-relationship involvement. Overall, 62.7% of participants exhibited low self-esteem, and 63.2% reported being in a self-initiated romantic relationship. Individuals in relationships demonstrated significantly lower self-esteem than those not involved (r = –0.61, p < 0.001), with females showing marginally lower mean scores than males. Findings suggest that young adults with diminished self-worth may be more inclined to pursue romantic relationships as a source of emotional validation. Interventions aimed at strengthening self-esteem during adolescence may support healthier relational development among Indian youth.