Worth/Value

[Bobbyrobbydo]

Starting a thread about this because it’s been cropping up for me lately. It might be a short thread because I don’t have much of a position to state, more interested in exploring, especially in connection with suffering.

How much of our PTSD symptoms are wrapped around this concept, particularly the self-determined emphasis on its absence?

To say, “I am worthy of… (that thing you desire, expressing your emotions, and so on),” can be a big breakthrough or a despised hurdle in recovery.

Does the belief in self-worth run up against cultural or social conditioning?

Thinking of how exceptionalism plays a role, either in seeing others as worthy and not ourselves, or in seeing ourselves as worthy in spite of our environment or foundations.

Welcoming your thoughts around the topic. Have your views changed over time?

OliveJewel, I like your question as it has to be considered. It is possible that much of our experience of PTSD symptoms is related to the “absence” of self-determination and the presence of a sense of control over one’s environment and destiny. Therefore, it is important to consider how self-determination can be used to help reduce the severity of PTSD symptoms. The concept of self-determination highlights the idea that a person has an innate capacity to make choices and take action from a place of internal motivation. People with PTSD may feel a sense of helplessness and lack of control over their lives, which can lead to worse symptomatic outcomes as they lose the ability to make healthy decisions for themselves. By recognizing the formative role of self-determination, it is possible to gain a better understanding of how symptoms of PTSD could interact with the self-determined emphasis on its absence.


Society prioritizes external forms of validation via our level of success in the things we are required to do to survive in life, i.e., school, relationships, high-paying career, etc. Developing this internal belief requires people to learn to trust in themselves, despite external judgement and pressure. Learning to do so can be difficult, but ultimately, it is essential for a healthy and fulfilled life. People may be discouraged from looking within themselves or have difficulty learning how to do so. This can lead to a sense of low self-worth due to an inability to trust in one’s own capabilities and inner compass.

it sounds so weird to me to specifically say the words i am worthy of (random thing) i feel like i see myself as a queen saying i'm worthy of anything.

All human beings are equally valuable because of the intangible qualities each and every person has, like potential, creativity, and morality. Every human being is born with an amount of these qualities, and they should be treated with regard regardless of their economic or social background. Furthermore, we all have the capacity to grow and develop that potential over time, regardless of our beginnings. We should recognize the autonomy and value of each person and be fully convinced that no one person is better or worse than another, and our moral values should encourage us to respect one another.


A universal valuation of human beings is one that centers on the qualities that make them unique – qualities that remain intact in all social and economic situations. Everyone should be respected and treated as worthy, regardless of their individual circumstances, identities, past mistakes, and backgrounds. Be kind to yourself and know you are enough.

Starting a thread about this because it’s been cropping up for me lately. It might be a short thread because I don’t have much of a position to state, more interested in exploring, especially in connection with suffering.

How much of our PTSD symptoms are wrapped around this concept, particularly the self-determined emphasis on its absence?

To say, “I am worthy of… (that thing you desire, expressing your emotions, and so on),” can be a big breakthrough or a despised hurdle in recovery.

Does the belief in self-worth run up against cultural or social conditioning?

Thinking of how exceptionalism plays a role, either in seeing others as worthy and not ourselves, or in seeing ourselves as worthy in spite of our environment or foundations.

Welcoming your thoughts around the topic. Have your views changed over time?

Research suggests that self-determination leads to better outcomes and promotes resilience. When faced with stressors and trauma, individuals with greater self-determination often are more likely to manage and cope with symptoms and feelings in a positive manner, and may even be better able to define their experiences and find meaning in them.
PTSD symptoms are thought to be linked to a person's perception of personal control over their environment and a sense of security. This concept of “self-determination” is closely tied to our worldview and how we cope with change. As such, it could be argued that much of our experience of PTSD symptoms is shaped by our perception of this concept of “self-determination”.