48 Case Studies 26: Mable’s Search for Self-esteem

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Mable, a nineteen-year-old, grew up in a tumultuous home. Her father’s instability, expressed through pouting and anger-laced outbursts, created an environment of fear, insecurity, and unpredictability. She vividly recalls curling up in a fetal position at night, listening to her parents argue.

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Her mother worked full-time, leaving Mable to rear herself during the day. In her teenage years, Mable sought affirmation through relationships with boys, often turning to promiscuity to fill the void of acceptance and love. Her most recent breakup has left her feeling empty and seeking answers, leading her to counseling.

Mable believes her core struggle is low self-esteem, a belief reinforced by all the self-help books she has been reading. While she became a believer two years ago, her spiritual growth has been stunted due to having no mentor or meaningful connection within her local church. Mable is searching for guidance to understand her struggles and find a path toward true transformation.

Though she feels stuck, Mable’s willingness to seek help is an opportunity to address the deeper heart issues driving her patterns and redirect her identity to her worth in Christ rather than the fleeting approval of others.

Case Study Questions

1. Is her problem low self-esteem? Why did you answer the question the way that you did?
2. What is the difference (if any) between low self-esteem and low self-worth? Be clear and specific with your answer.
3. How would you counsel her? Please address the case from at least five different angles, bringing practical care to help her overcome the various issues she needs to consider and change.

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Rick Thomas

Rick launched the Life Over Coffee global training network in 2008 to bring hope and help for you and others by creating resources that spark conversations for transformation. His primary responsibilities are resource creation and leadership development, which he does through speaking, writing, podcasting, and educating.

In 1990 he earned a BA in Theology and, in 1991, a BS in Education. In 1993, he received his ordination into Christian ministry, and in 2000 he graduated with an MA in Counseling from The Master’s University. In 2006 he was recognized as a Fellow of the Association of Certified Biblical Counselors (ACBC).