The effects of differential verbal response patterns of mothers on the self esteem of their children were explored by means of a stratified random sampling of 203 eighth grade children and their mothers. Test results showed that there is a relationship between the way in which a mother responds to her child in negative situations and the child's self esteem for the inner city sample only. Significant differences are observed between the responses of the inner city black sample and the suburban white sample. Inner city mothers were found to be less descriptive and their children had lower estimates of self esteem than did peripheral city and suburban mothers and their children. Discussion focuses on theoretical support, cultural differences, and import for future inquiry. It is suggested that practical application of the findings extend beyond the parent-child home relationship to the teacher and other members of the community. (Author/NH)