Hong, Chi-manChi-manHong2012-10-112012-10-112012http://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11861/853Thesis (M.Soc.Sc.) -- Hong Kong Shue Yan University, 2012.Includes bibliographical references (p. 105-118).xi, 175 p.This research was designed to examine the development of self-esteem through Biblical studies in Proverbs and Matthew to initiate personal growth for females. The control group was provided a compulsory psycho-educational course of self-esteem and a Biblical study course for seven weeks for the experimental group, who were mainly catechumens. The experimental group was also required to read the Bible regularly at home. Although showing no significant difference in personal growth scores, both groups’ (N=22) post-test scores were positively increased. After the experimental group had finished two courses for six months, a follow-up qualitative thematic analysis was used to investigate both groups and find out the underlying reasons that might have affected the outcome. Analyses revealed that people require time to digest the Bible and adapt God’s words into their daily life. This affected the follow-up post-test, resulting in significant differences for personal growth. The purpose of this study was to draw people’s attention to Biblical studies as one of the alternative ways to enhance their self-esteem to initiate personal growth.eng chiSelf-EsteemPersonal GrowthBiblical StudiesProverbs and MatthewPsychology and religion.Bible Psychology.Psychology, Personality.Thesis