self-esteem; self-respect; pride
Refers to a person's sense of their own worth or dignity. Can be used positively (healthy self-esteem) or negatively (excessive pride, conceit).
People with strong pride find it hard to accept criticism.
My self-esteem was hurt by the failure.
He has high self-esteem and doesn't easily bow his head to others.
That one remark hurt her pride.
My pride was hurt when they laughed at my failure.
The boss is good at flattering his subordinates' pride.
She has such strong pride that she never apologizes.