I haven't had a chance to fully read all of the articles, but I do think a discussion of self-esteem could be valuable.

I have a lot of problems with the premises of the David Mills chapter. He makes an awful lot of sweeping statements about what *is* without backing it up in any way. The very beginning of the chapter states what kind of advice a therapist would give now vs. thirty years ago. I'm not sure either one is consistent with general therapeutic advice of either decade. I certainly know that I've talked to many many therapists, and none of them have ever stated anything even approaching his presumption.

Basically, my impression of his writing is that he is describing "self-esteem" in exactly the opposite way that it is usually referred to in therapy. When therapists are trying to improve self-esteem, it's been my experience that they are referring to what is defined in one of the articles as global self-esteem:

"Global self-esteem: An overall estimate of general self-worth; a level of self-acceptance or respect for ones-self; a trait or tendency relatively stable and enduring, composed of all subordinate traits and characteristics within the self."

I think someone with that type of self-esteem doesn't have the fluctuations between self-esteem and self-damnation that Mills speaks about. I know for myself, developing my own self-esteem has meant that I don't ascribe my entire self-worth to momentary actions. So, making a mistake isn't equated with being a bad person, it is simply something I can work on improving.

I do think there are some valid points to be raised. There does seem to be an effort in some circles to remove anything that might damage the self-esteem...for example, my friend described a science night at her granddaughter's school where every child received the same prize. While I think this may be valid for very very young children, "protecting" children from judgement doesn't prepare them for the judgements that will come later. And it actually validates the notion that one's sense of self is related to individual triumphs and failures.

Well, that's it for now...I'm sure I will have more later...just try to shut me up!!!

Jo