How a dysfunctional childhood can create low self-esteem

From feeling inferior to constantly proving ourselves for love and affection, here are a few ways by which dysfunctional childhood can affect self-esteem.

Published on: Aug 31, 2023 1:59 PM IST

Lifestyle

Share via

• 
• 
• 
• 

Copy link

• 

1/6

View Photos in a new improved layout

Published on Aug 31, 2023 1:59 PM

When we are brought up in dysfunctional homes, we face avoidance and ignorance from our parents and caregivers. Hence, we do not learn what affection is and keep seeking it in adult relationships. Not being loved and attended to creates a void in us that stays and shapes our behavior and mental health in adulthood as well. "Childhood is where we ideally learn that who we are is ok and appreciated and loveable. If the people around us are not able to help us form these healthy beliefs though it can leave a long-term mark on how we see and feel about ourselves," wrote therapist Sian Crossley. (Unsplash)

2/6

View Photos in a new improved layout

Published on Aug 31, 2023 1:59 PM

When we are surrounded by people in childhood who do not accept and love us for who we are, we slowly start to develop the feeling that something is wrong with us.  (Unsplash)

3/6

View Photos in a new improved layout

Published on Aug 31, 2023 1:59 PM

Not being accepted by the birth tribe and the family can make us feel inferior to others even when we grow up.  (Unsplash)

4/6

View Photos in a new improved layout

Published on Aug 31, 2023 1:59 PM

In dysfunctional homes, children constantly feel that the love and the attention they are receiving is I complete.  (Unsplash)

5/6

View Photos in a new improved layout

Published on Aug 31, 2023 1:59 PM

This incomplete affection creates a void that makes us want to keep proving even in adulthood for love and approval.  (Unsplash)

6/6

View Photos in a new improved layout

Published on Aug 31, 2023 1:59 PM

The projected image in societies that family is everything can make us feel different and at a disadvantage.  (Unsplash)