According to Harter (1988), why do children's self-worth change during midchildhood?

Children's self-worth undergoes significant changes during midchildhood primarily due to the increase in cognitive capabilities. As children develop cognitively, they become more aware of themselves and their place in the social environment. This heightened self-awareness allows them to evaluate their skills, achievements, and social interactions more critically. They begin to compare themselves to peers, which significantly influences their self-esteem and self-worth.

As cognitive abilities expand, children also acquire better strategies for self-regulation and problem-solving, which can enhance their feelings of competence in various domains, such as academics, sports, and social relationships. This growth in cognitive functioning enables children to set and pursue personal goals, understand constructive criticism, and engage in self-reflection, all of which contribute positively to their self-worth during this developmental stage.

In contrast, while factors like parental strictness, educational activities provided by teachers, and independent play can have an impact, the foundational shifts in cognitive development are critical for fostering an understanding of self and, consequently, self-worth during midchildhood.