Self-face evaluation and self-esteem in young females: An fMRI study using contrast effect

► We examined the neural correlates of self-face evaluation using the contrast effect. ► We identified the PCC/VTA as the neural correlates of positive self-face evaluation. ► Same tendency of activation in PCC/VTA between one's own face and close friend's one. ► There was a positive correlation between activation in PCC/VTA and self-esteem.