What do "conditions of worth" represent in the context of Person-Centered Therapy?

"Conditions of worth" in Person-Centered Therapy refer to the external standards and expectations set by society, parents, or significant others that an individual feels they must meet to be considered valuable or worthy of love and acceptance. This concept, introduced by Carl Rogers, highlights how these external conditions can significantly impact a person's self-esteem and self-acceptance.

When individuals internalize these conditions of worth, they may begin to evaluate their self-worth based solely on how well they meet these imposed expectations. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy, anxiety, and the development of a facade to please others, ultimately hindering their ability to be authentic. In contrast, genuine acceptance and unconditional positive regard — key components of Person-Centered Therapy — are essential for fostering true self-awareness and personal growth.

Understanding conditions of worth helps therapists identify obstacles their clients may face in achieving self-acceptance and authenticity, guiding the therapeutic process toward healing and self-discovery.