Wacana: Jurnal Ilmiah Ilmu Komunikasi
Vol 25, No 1 (2026): In Press

Supportive Caregiver Communication in Enhancing Adolescent Self-Esteem in Residential Care

Mohammad Ali Fikri (Universitas Negeri Malang)
Ananda Dwitha Y (Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta)
Muhammad Syaamil D (Universitas Negeri Malang)
Vira Hawa Aprilila (Universitas Negeri Malang)



Article Info

Publish Date
10 Jun 2026

Abstract

Adolescents living in orphanages are vulnerable to low self-esteem due to experiences of loss, family separation, and psychosocial challenges. This study aims to examine how supportive caregiver communication contributes to the development of adolescent self-esteem at the Muhammadiyah Children Centre (MCC) KH. Mas Mansyur. Guided by Social Support Theory, this research employed a sequential explanatory mixed-methods design by combining quantitative and qualitative approaches. Quantitative data were collected using the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES) administered to 19 adolescents, while qualitative data were obtained through semi-structured interviews with 4 caregivers. The findings indicate that adolescents generally demonstrated relatively healthy levels of self-esteem, although differences appeared between male and female participants. The study identified 4 caregiver communication practices: proactive and empathetic interaction, the development of a family-like community, fair and consistent discipline, and positive narrative reframing. These practices reflect emotional, instrumental, informational, and appraisal support that strengthen adolescents’ self-liking and self-competence. The study concludes that supportive caregiver communication plays an important role in fostering adolescents’ psychological well-being and self-esteem within residential care.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

wacana

Publisher

Subject

Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media Social Sciences

Description

Wacana, Jurnal Ilmiah Ilmu Komunikasi merupakan wujud karya ilmiah tentang kajian ilmu komunikasi yang melingkupi hasil penelitian dengan tema atau topik yang dibahasa dalam jurnal Wacana meliputi kajian ilmu komunikasi baik Komunikasi Politik atau pun Komunikasi Lintas Budaya; Strategic ...