Adult Psychotherapy: Construction Of Identity And Real Self -esteem
Many people reach therapy without a clear structure of who they are really, trapped in external validation patterns or with a fragile self -esteem that oscillates according to the recognition of others
Identity and self -esteem are fundamental elements of psychological well -being. However, many people reach therapy without a clear structure of who they are really, trapped in external validation patterns or with a fragile self -esteem that oscillates according to the foreign recognition. Adult psychotherapy becomes an essential space to reconstruct an autonomous identity and strengthen real self -esteem.
Identity is not a fixed entity, but an evolutionary process. It is molded through childhood, education, social experiences and the messages we receive from the environment. However, many people have not developed an identity since their own self -affirmation, but have built a “I” based on the expectation of others.
This construction dependent on the alien gaze translates into fragile and conditioned self -esteem, where personal worth is measured based on external recognition.
Authentic identity vs. Identity dependent on external validation
The Authentic identity It is based on self -affirmation, personal values and independent decisions. While the dependent identity It is built based on the approval of others, which causes anxiety for recognition and constant self -assessment in relation to others.
Self -esteem: The central axis of psychological well -being
Self -esteem is the perception and assessment that a person has over herself, based on the self -assessment of their abilities, values and behaviors. Self -esteem varies throughout life and changes over time, influenced by our way of acting, thinking and learning.
When self -esteem is based on external validation, it becomes fragile and unstable, oscillating according to the approval or disapproval of the environment.
People with self -dependent for external validation may experiment:
Constant approval anxiety
Difficulty making decisions without consulting others
Fear of criticism or rejection
Vacuum sensation when they do not receive recognition
This is where psychotherapy comes into play as a tool for strengthening self -knowledge and self -affirmation.
Examples of identity and self -esteem based on external factors
Physical appearance: people who base their personal worth in their external aspect, constantly striving to meet beauty standards imposed by society.
Professional success: those who define their identity through their work achievements, titles or hierarchical positions, facing identity crisis when their career changes.
Social acceptance: those who constantly seek the approval of others, adapting their behavior and opinions to fit.
Personal relationships: individuals who depend on their roles as a couple, father/mother or friend to define themselves, and feel a loss of identity when these relationships change or end.
The formation of identity in childhood and its impact on adulthood
Childhood is a crucial stage in the formation of identity and self -esteem. During these years, children build their self -concept through interactions with their environment and significant people in their lives.
It is essential that parents, educators and caregivers provide an environment of support, recognition and love, promoting healthy self -esteem and solid identity from the first years of life. Otherwise, the lack of affirmation and support can lead to insecure adults whose identity continues to depend on external factors.
Psychotherapy for the construction of a strong and autonomous identity
To strengthen identity and real self -esteem in psychological therapy, it is key to work on:
Self -awareness: identify inherited beliefs about the value itself
Cognitive restructuring: question automatic thoughts that reinforce insecurity
Self -affirmation: Develop an internal narrative based on authenticity
Emotional autonomy practices: to make its own decisions without seeking constant approval
The ultimate goal is to help the person recognize himself beyond the external look, strengthen their identity from an internal place and develop a stable and resilient self -esteem
Adult psychotherapy is a space for deconstruction and reconstruction of identity and self -esteem. Moving from an identity dependent on external validation to an authentic identity is a process that requires time, awareness and commitment. The challenge is clear: cease to exist only in the reflection of others and begin to be from ourselves.
Literature
Branden, N. (2011). The six pillars of self -esteem. Paidos Iberian.
Cornejo, S. (2016). Body, image and identity. A perfect (IM) relationship. Notebooks of the Center for Studies in Design and Communication. Essays, 58, 1–10. https://www.scielo.org.ar/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S1853-35232016000300017&lng=en&nrm=iso&tlng=en
García, CJ (2014). Reality and human psychology (authorship Medinaceli, Vol. 3).
Pereira Naranjo, LM (2007). The contents of this article are under a Creative Commons license. Electronic Magazine “Research News in Education,” 7. http://revista.inie.ucr.c.cr
