Views of Self-Esteem

Question: I have heard so many seemingly different ways to raise children that are suppose to help produce children with high self esteem. What is your perspective and what do you think is most effective? Answer: There are two basic camps in our culture today. The humanistic view: Babies are born innately good and must learn evil Society and its social institutions are responsible for man’s evil acts High self esteem, mental health, and the ability to love others can be achieved by everyone who first learns to love himself and get in touch with his real “good self.” The Biblical View: Babies are born with a sin nature and must learn to be good Man must take individual responsibility for wrong behavior and comit to change Man must learn to love God, others, and do good then self-respect, high self esteem and a sense of fulfillment will result. The Bible is a very consistent about the idea that in order for man to be decent, caring, and productive individuals, we must seek an Authority higher than ourselves, and follow His ways. Psalms 128: 1-2: “Praiseworthy is one who fears the Lord, who walks in His ways. When you eat the labor of your hands, you are praiseworthy and it is well with you.” Simply stated, if we as parents strive to train our children to love God, put others first, and work hard, then they will be more equipped to handle the trials that life will inevitably bring their way, and will be able to receive more of the blessings that God has intended for them. Answered by: Dr. Robert Rice