Persistent Criticism

A developmental environment in which feedback is frequently corrective, evaluative, or focused on flaws rather than guidance or repair. When criticism is ongoing and not balanced with reassurance or emotional attunement, a child may internalize the sense that mistakes reflect personal deficiency rather than learning moments. Over time, this can shape heightened self-monitoring, shame responses, fear of failure, or an internalized critical voice that continues even in the absence of external judgment.

“I Am Ugly”

“I Am Ugly” is a core identity-level belief that wires the nervous system for shame, rejection sensitivity, and…

“I Am Disgusting”

The “I Am Disgusting” belief forms when natural emotions or bodily functions were shamed, leading to identity-level avoidance,…

“I Am Unattractive”

“I’m not desirable.” This belief might whisper rather than shout, but its impact is deep. It fuels comparison,…

“I Should Die”

This isn’t about wanting life to end. It’s about believing your presence is the problem. Therapy can break…

“I Am a Bad Person”

The belief “I Am A Bad Person” often stems from environments where mistakes were punished and morality was…

“I Am Stupid”

You second-guess everything—even when you know the answer. The belief “I Am Stupid” often forms in environments where…