Defined Quote by Albert Ellis
“Is self-esteem a sickness? That's according to the way you define it. In the usual way it is defined by people and by psychologists, I'd say that it is probably the greatest emotional disturbance known to man and woman.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Reason and Emotion in Psychotherapy, Albert Ellis, 1977
Self‑esteem can become a harmful emotional disorder when defined as a rigid, inflated self‑image rather than realistic self‑acceptance.
In simple terms: Self‑esteem may be a harmful emotional disorder if misdefined.
Key Takeaway
Question self‑esteem and seek realistic self‑view.
Themes
self‑esteem
psychology
emotional health
identity
Mood
reflective
critical
Type
philosophical
psychological
When to use this quote
- personal counseling
- education
- mental health practice
- relationship building
Key Concepts
cognitive distortion
self‑concept
defense mechanisms
Questions to Reflect On
- How does your definition of self‑esteem affect your behavior?
- What healthier self‑views can you adopt?
A Different Perspective
Over‑emphasis on self‑esteem can ignore underlying insecurities.
![“The self is defined psychologically as the psychic totality of the individual. Anything that a [person] postulates as being a greater totality than [oneself] can become a symbol of the self. For this reason the symbol of the self is not always as total as the definition would require.” quote by Carl Jung](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/251/carl-jung-274_defined_the-self-is-defined-psychologically-as-t_7148.jpg)
