[통합적연구] 자기존중감(self-esteem) 이론에 대한 목회상담학적 고찰

A term self-esteem which is deeply rooted in the humanistic psychology has become an acquainted term in the field of Christian counseling. As it was revealed, many humanistic psychologists such as Rogers and Maslow believed that many problems of human psychological disorders and maladaptation were originated from the low self-esteem. In particular, the proponents of the theology of self-esteem within the Christianity attempt to establish major theological doctrines by adapting the psychological concepts of self-love, self-worth, self-help and positive self-image. Like many humanistic psychologists, they insist that by instilling human dignity, worth and autonomy, human psychological problems can be solved and their success and happiness would be surely achieved. Furthermore, they try to establish the doctrines of creation and redemption through the perspective of humanistic psychology. As a result, they distort the meaning of Gospel as a mere tool for human sucess and happiness. Accordingly, we can say that the position of the theology of self-esteem do not have any biblical support. On the other hand, though the biblical self-image based on the interpretation of a reformed perspective for the word of God acknowledges the reality of human sin, nevertheless, it is not a dark, pessimistic and negative self-image that is full of the feeling of inferiority and false guilt. It intends to reveal and emphasize the grace and power of God rather than the value and worth of human beings. The biblical self-image of a Christian represents a true healthy and positive self-image that pursuits first the glory of God and the benefit of others by seeing themselves as a new creation in the kingdom of God on the basis of relying on God in the grace of God.