Build Me Up Buttercup: Self Esteem As It Relates to Abuse Prevention Sara Willis & Jessica Naslund & Self Advocate

Objectives Knowledge: Understand the concept of self esteem Attitudes/values: Appreciate how people, events and circumstances influence self esteem Skills: Explore our own self worth

Vulnerable Populations Statistics of Abuse by Population Elderly Children Substance abuse Mental illness Developmental/intellectual disabilities

Other Factors That Put People At Risk Needs support with personal care Has a physical disability Family History of Abuse Limited privacy Lack of Education Little or no support system Few opportunities to engage in healthy relationships Family crisis Financial Problems Discuss how each of these risk factors may contribute to the likelihood of abuse

Safe Circle Coalition April 2010 Identify and recommend best practices in the areas of healthy relationships and sexuality as well as to raise awareness in the St. Louis region about prevention, identification, and response to abuses or exploitation.

Dave Hingsburger’s Ring of Safety

What Is A Healthy Self Concept? Self-esteem may be described as a person’s view of their worth and may be influenced by: Performance Abilities Appearance The judgment of significant others

What Gives Us Self Esteem?

How Do You Rate?

What Takes Self Esteem Away?

High Self Esteem=More Healthy Relationships Able to better advocate for yourself When you feel better about yourself, you communicate better You have to love yourself first before others can love you Confident people attract other confident people Allow only positive people in your life The people in your life value you You share in decision making

Question & Comments Thank you so much for your time! If you want to learn more about Safe Circle and their mission or you would like a copy of this presentation, please email jnaslund@ywcastlouis.org