Abstract
Self rejection or negative self-concept is a problem that has existed through the ages. Evidence-based treatments have attempted to remedy this problem. However, for the Christian client, secular study devoid of the relationship with God falls short. There is a need to examine with this context, and one’s true identity as the Beloved Child of God. A. T. Beck (1967) stated that “negative self-concept is associated with self-rejection” (p. 259). Nouwen (1992b) asserted, “Self-rejection is the greatest enemy of the spiritual life because it contradicts the sacred voice that calls us the ‘Beloved’ ” (p. 33). The purpose of this paper is examine the relationship between the psychological notion of self-rejection or negative self-concept, specifically the core beliefs of the self in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), and what Nouwen (2009) proposed as identity as the Beloved. Connections between levels of beliefs in CBT, empirical research, and the spiritual insights of Henri Nouwen are presented, with clinical application for the Christian client.
Presenters
Constance SalhanyDirector, Cognitive Therapy of Staten Island/ Emmaus CBT, New York, United States
Details
Presentation Type
Theme
KEYWORDS
Self Rejection, Core Beliefs, Christian, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Clinical
