A longitudinal formulation based on Fennell's cognitive model of low self-esteem — mapping how early experiences created a negative bottom line that is maintained by biased processing and unhelpful rules.
Low Self-Esteem Formulation (Fennell)
PreviewEarly Experiences
What experiences shaped your view of yourself?
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The Bottom Line
My bottom line about myself:
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How much do you believe this? (0–100%)
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Rules for Living
What rules did you develop to manage the bottom line?
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When Rules Are Triggered or Broken
What situations trigger or break your rules?
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Maintenance Cycle
Negative Predictions
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Anxiety / Low Mood
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Safety Behaviours / Avoidance
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Biased Processing
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Protective Factors & Strengths
What resources, strengths, and supports might help in recovery?
Protective factors
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Strengths & resources
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Map out how early experiences led to negative core beliefs and the rules, triggers, and maintenance cycles that keep low self-esteem going.
Practise responding to yourself with the same kindness you would offer a friend — challenging the self-critical voice with compassion.
Sign up free and send your client a link. They complete it on any device — you review their responses before the next session.
No credit card required. 10 free worksheets every month.
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