Can we go too far in trying to promote positive self-esteem?

Question

Is there any harm in promoting an inaccurate perception of self? What if any are they?

Answer 1

I think you might be touching upon the difference between believing in yourself and lying to yourself. The only real harm is in not recognising the difference.

Positive self esteem is about recognising your good qualities and working towards improving areas requiring growth and change. It may be perceived as pretending to be something your not, while in reality it is about helping your true self to shine.

Another area of confusion is between self esteem and arrogance. Someone with positive self esteem can embrace themself along with others, while someone who is arrogant only feels good about themself when they stand above others (or put others down). This is very harmful behaviour.

Positive self esteem, in its true sense, is a very beautiful thing.

Answer 2

There have been several studies done that show that overly high self esteem in children leads to dangerous behavior. Just last week I read an article that linked high self esteem in teenagers with violence against other teens.

One reason is that with a falsely built up self esteem, there is no way to measure up to the way you have been built up. Frequently this causes anger, emotional outbursts and a feeling of frustration.

Answer 3

watch american idol. i think some people went to far in trying to promote self-esteem. i dont think friends and family members should pump peoples heads up when they shouldnt be pumped up

Answer 4

Yes, if it is not based upon objective achievment and worth|

To feel that you are the best while running around as a whiny bully is not only false, but makes you the laughing stock of every one|




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Answer 5

i think promoting self-esteem and self-confidence is very important. especially with children. but it can be taken overboard and people become cocky. and that is NO good. no one likes an overly cocky person.