ABSTRACT
There are at least three good reasons anyone interested in self-esteem would do well to begin by defining how the term is to be used in a given work. For one thing, operational definitions are an important part of the scientific method because specifying how one is employing a concept avoids unnecessary confusion. For another, areas of research often involve multiple or competing definitions of basic terms, a condition that necessitates identifying one’s position from the outset. Finally, setting the stage in this way establishes solid foundations for the entire body of a particular work. Consequently, this look at self-esteem begins by first defining what is meant by that term and then describes a highly structured psychoeducational program called competence and worthiness training (CWT) that has been shown to enhance self-esteem. Also, CWT emphasizes expanding experiences and increasing behaviors that result in authentic or healthy self-esteem instead of focusing on more problematic ones. Thus, it is shown that CWT may also stand as a form of positive therapy.
