The Connections Between Self-Esteem and Psychopathology

Authors

Virgil Zeigler-Hill, University of Southern MississippiFollow

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

9-1-2011

School

Psychology

Abstract

Diagnostic criteria and empirical research suggests an intimate connection between low self-esteem and psychopathology. The purpose of the present work is to provide a review of the literature that focuses on the interconnections between self-esteem and psychopathology. The most prominent explanations for this link are explored including the vulnerability model (low self-esteem increases the probability of psychopathology) and the scar model (low self-esteem is a consequence of psychopathology rather than a cause). Recent advancements in the self-esteem literature concerning distinctions between secure and fragile forms of self-esteem are discussed in terms of their potential implications for psychopathology. Finally, the role of self-esteem in psychotherapeutic interventions is reviewed.

Publication Title

Journal of Contemporary Psychotherapy

Volume

41

Issue

3

First Page

157

Last Page

164

Recommended Citation

Zeigler-Hill, V. (2011). The Connections Between Self-Esteem and Psychopathology. Journal of Contemporary Psychotherapy, 41(3), 157-164.
Available at: https://aquila.usm.edu/fac_pubs/21511