Self-esteem in behavior therapy

Self-Esteem in Behavior Therapy Self-esteem is an important construct in personality psychology and social psychology as well as in clinical psychology and psychotherapy. A high self-esteem is generally considered as desirable, it is correlated with psychological health and well-being and is often an important psychotherapeutic goal. This article gives an overview of the meaning of self-esteem in social and clinical psychology. The relevance of self-esteem in behavior therapy, Kanfer's self-management approach and Grawe's psychological therapy is discussed. Important interventions of behavior therapy are examined with regard to their possible effects on self-esteem. Interventions such as cognitive restructuring or enhancement of positive activities may serve self-esteem in several ways. Finally, research topics are discussed.