unworthiness

Unworthiness is the perception or belief that one is undeserving of esteem, respect, or basic rights, or that one lacks inherent value as a person. It can be a transient feeling or a more persistent conviction that colors how a person thinks, feels, and acts. In psychology, unworthiness is often discussed as part of low self-esteem or negative self-schemas and can be closely linked to shame, guilt, or depression. It is distinct from guilt (feeling bad about a specific action) and shame (feeling that one is deficient as a person), though these emotions can reinforce each other.

Contexts and interpretations of unworthiness vary. In psychology, it may emerge from childhood experiences, trauma, perfectionism, or chronic failure, and it can contribute to avoidance, withdrawal, or self-sabotage. It is sometimes connected to imposter syndrome, where individuals doubt their accomplishments and worry about being exposed as a fraud. In religious or spiritual contexts, unworthiness can be framed as a felt separation from the divine or as a state to be overcome through repentance, grace, or faith. Some traditions emphasize intrinsic worth and dignity shared by all people, while others stress the transformative potential of humility or repentance.

Effects and responses differ across individuals. Persistent unworthiness can impede goal pursuit, relationships, and mental health, but it may also motivate self-improvement in some cases. Coping approaches include self-compassion, cognitive-behavioral strategies, social support, and professional therapy. Understanding unworthiness involves distinguishing personal value from external approval and recognizing how beliefs about worth are shaped by culture, experience, and context.

See also: self-esteem, self-worth, shame, imposter syndrome, grace, forgiveness.