“McKay and Fanning recognize the complexity of the human tendency toward self-criticism. Their carefully written, cognitively oriented self-help book wisely avoids simplistic solutions, offering instead a systematic approach to self-esteem development.”

Robert E. Alberti, PhD, author of Your Perfect Right

“Positive self-esteem is the centerpiece of a healthy personality. McKay and Fanning’s book offers us a valuable storehouse of tactics and strategies for constructing—or renovating—the foundation of our self-esteem.”

Philip G. Zimbardo, PhD, author of Shyness

Self-Esteem is truly a very special title. Good writing is especially necessary for self-help titles. … I feel a special enthusiasm in bringing it to the notice of our audience.”

The Midwest Book Review

Publisher’s Note

This publication is designed to provide accurate and authoritative information in regard to the subject matter covered. It is sold with the understanding that the publisher is not engaged in rendering psychological, financial, legal, or other professional services. If expert assistance or counseling is needed, the services of a competent professional should be sought.

Distributed in Canada by Raincoast Books

Copyright © 2016 by Matthew McKay and Patrick Fanning

New Harbinger Publications, Inc.

5674 Shattuck Avenue

Oakland, CA 94609

www.newharbinger.com

Cover design by Amy Shoup

Acquired by Melissa Valentine

Edited by Gretel Hakanson

All Rights Reserved

Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data on file

To my loving parents, Bert and Grace Fanning —P. F.

In memory of my father, George Edward McKay —M. M.

Grateful acknowledgment is made to Eugene B. Sagan, PhD, who introduced me to the pathological critic and some of the important techniques used in this book. —M. M.