Our self-concept gets shaped during childhood in relation to the type of care afforded us. Studies reveal a strong correlation between low self-concept and children that grew up in an environment where their caregivers were abusive and neglectful towards them. A child who has seldom received love, acknowledgement or praise, misses out on vital biopsychosocial experiences that helps in establishing good self-esteem. Research indicates a strong positive association between high self-esteem and adaptive outcomes.

Although psychological problems may be rooted in childhood, they are reinforced by present ways of thinking. 

A person’s experiences result in cognitions.These cognitions are connected with schemas which are Core beliefs developed in early life, which create our worldview perspective that impacts our emotional state and behaviour. We interact with the world through our mental representation of it and if our representations are inaccurate and our reasonings inadequate then our feelings and actions may become disordered.

A person’s belief system and thinking is the primary cause of disorders.

Being plagued by unbidden negative thought aka automatic thoughts that encompasses persistent negative thoughts about the self, the world and the future even in the face of contrary evidence. This contributes to abnormalities like depression, relationship problems and anxiety. Internal dialogue plays a central role in one’s behavior. 

By examining these faulty assumptions and misconceptions, you can work on replacing these with effective beliefs. You have the capacity to interpret, influence and create events. At an early age you create a unique style of life, which tends to remain relatively constant throughout life. You have the capacity to recognise how earlier influences are related to present difficulties. Behavior is the product of learning. Thus, it is important to remember that we are the product and the producer of the environment. The process helps you move towards increased awareness; spontaneity; mindfulness; acceptance; trust in self and inner-directedness.

Our storytelling tendencies provide us with opportunities for re-authoring our stories to provide growth and development and situate us on a path towards self-awareness and understanding of the self. Through our stories we can interpret the past by using questions that help to identify and evaluate the problem and its effect and thereby enlighten our future. This allows for fresh perceptions of past and present events which furthermore create new possibilities for the future.

People’s lives are created and interpreted through their stories and always remember, these can be re-authored. We may be unable to choose our parents or have any control on our upbringing however we can affect beneficial change and can fashion a new life story.