I don't think the 'self respect' statement is related to the cadet scheme and any implied lack of amongst the cadets.
I think it is related to a motivated pilot joining as an SO and having to live the life so aptly described by AKOTA. I think any of us would have to do a bit of soul searching after spending a few years making the bunks and filling in the flight plan. When any highly motivated and trained individual is put in that position, it has to have some impact on your own feeling of self worth and I guess by extension; self respect.
But then again, this is only my take on the statement.