What is the definition of "low self-esteem"?

"Low self-esteem" exists when someone has a general feeling of insignificance or a lack of importance. Someone with low self-esteem is likely to avoid social interactions, feel inadequate in work and struggle to accept criticism. Severely low esteem may also lead to physical symptoms, such as headaches and exhaustion.

Low self-esteem often forms in early childhood, or as a child goes through adolescence. In early childhood, the attitude parents project toward a child impacts esteem. When parents ignore a child, low esteem may develop. During school, low self-esteem may result from traumatic events or from disinterest from peers and other adults.