Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Low-self esteem refers to a negative evaluation and perception of oneself, often accompanied by feelings of inadequacy and lack of self-worth.
Related terms
Negative self-talk: This is the habit of engaging in critical or pessimistic internal dialogue about oneself.
Self-efficacy: Refers to an individual's belief in their own ability to succeed in specific situations or accomplish certain tasks.
Cognitive restructuring: A therapeutic technique used in cognitive-behavioral therapy to help individuals identify and challenge negative thought patterns contributing to low self-esteem.