Self-acceptance . is defined as affirmation or acceptance of self in spite of weaknesses or deficiencies. Although this term has been often understood in a common sense way, researchers have defined it formally in terms of positive and negative self-concepts. According to Shepard (1979), self-acceptance refers to an individuals satisfaction or happiness with himself, and is thought to be necessary for good mental health. Self-acceptance involves self-understanding, a realistic, albeit subjective, awareness of ones strengths and weaknesses. It results in an individuals feeling about himself that he is of unique worth. In clinical psychology and positive psychology, self-acceptance is considered the prerequisite for change to occur. It can be achieved by stopping criticizing and solving the defects of ones self, and then accepting them to be existing within ones self. That is, tolerating oneself to be imperfect in some parts. Counseling and therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and mindfulness-acceptance based approaches (see abct.org), can help promote self-acceptance to promote change. References Shepard, L. A. (1979). Self-acceptance: The evaluative component of the self-concept construct. American Educational Research Journal, 16(2), 139-160.
Posted on: Mon, 11 Nov 2013 12:14:13 +0000
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