Critical Inner Voice

The “Critical Inner Voice” describes the part of us that is turned against ourselves. It is the defended, negative side of our personality that is opposed to our ongoing development. The voice consists of the negative thoughts, beliefs and attitudes that oppose our best interests and diminish our self-esteem. It encourages and strongly influences self-defeating and self-destructive behavior. This hostile, judgmental advisor also warns us about other people, promoting angry and cynical attitudes toward others and creating a negative, pessimistic picture of the world. Learn where this inner critic comes from as well as how to identify and overcome your Critical Inner Voice in the following articles.

Identity, Sexuality, and Society’s Assault on the Self: A Commentary on John Irving’s Novel, In One Person

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What’s Behind Emotional Overeating?

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The Critical Inner Voice Defined

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Overcoming Your Inner Critic: A Video Interview with Robert Firestone, Ph.D.

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Changing Your Body Image Once and for All

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Silence the Inner Voice That’s Stressing You Out

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Why Are We Hooked on Rejection?

You don’t need to be a psychologist to note the very harsh effects of a... >>

How Childhood Defenses Hurt Us As Adults

As adults, we are often asked to reflect on the positive influences, role models, and... >>

The Anti-Self Vs. The True Self

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Eight Ways to Actively Fight Depression

When you’re depressed, it often feels like nothing in the world can make you feel... >>