Definitions of Self-Esteem across CBT and REBT Literature

Abstract

This chapter discusses how self-esteem is currently defined across common CBT and REBT literature. It aims to establish if there is a clear consensus as to what constitutes low, healthy, and high self-esteem, and implications this may have on clinical practice. Definitions of self-esteem within the DSM-5 and ICD-10 are reviewed, as well as cognitive and affective models of self-esteem. Definitions of self-esteem differ widely both across CBT and REBT as well as within CBT and REBT. Definitions are inconsistent within the DSM-5 and ICD-10. Conflation of beliefs, emotions, and constructs of self-esteem occur across research and within CBT and REBT, but is less frequent in REBT. Inconsistencies are more prevalent within CBT literature, which may be problematic, as points of intervention may therefore differ depending on theoretical understanding and definition of constructs of self-esteem.