TACOT 1.0: The Theory of Contextual Self-Esteem Segmented by Traumatic Origin

Self-esteem has traditionally been conceptualized as a stable and unitary trait, yet contemporary evidence shows that it operates as a dynamic and multidimensional system shaped by trauma, resilience, and sociocultural context. This article presents TACOT 1.0 (Theory of Contextual Self-Esteem Segmented by Traumatic Origin), an integrative theoretical model that explains how specific traumatic experiences increase the probability of vulnerability in particular self-esteem domains—such as relational, physical, academic, social, and moral—while resilience factors and contextual resources can buffer, neutralize, or reverse these effects. TACOT 1.0 synthesizes empirical findings from research on domain-specific self-esteem, maladaptive schemas, attachment, affect regulation, intersectionality, and network models. The theory proposes five core principles: (1) self-esteem is segmented into interdependent domains; (2) trauma influences these domains probabilistically rather than deterministically; (3) resilience factors at the intrapersonal, interpersonal, and sociocultural levels shape developmental trajectories; (4) context and identity-based inequalities structure exposure to trauma and sources of self-worth; and (5) self-esteem functions as a dynamic network with cascade effects across domains. The model offers implications for assessment, clinical practice, and research, advocating for interventions that combine trauma processing, self-compassion, social support, and contextual transformation. TACOT 1.0 aims to provide a flexible framework for understanding the heterogeneity of self-esteem development and for designing culturally sensitive, empirically grounded approaches to psychological healing and resilience.