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Self Esteem Tips for Men: Interview

February 18, 2011

Self Esteem Tips for Men: Interview with Therapist Joseph LaFleur, MSW, MBA, LICSW

By Jaleh

Men like women can have a low sense of self esteem. The good news is any man can boost their self esteem and have the confidence to accomplish anything he wants out of life. To help understand where most men's sense of low self esteem stems from and for self esteem tips for men, I have interviewed therapist Joseph LaFleur, MSW, MBA, LICSW.

Tell me a little bit about yourself.

"I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker and Psycho-dynamic Psychotherapist with a private practice in Washington DC. My education includes a Master's Degree in Social Work from Tulane University, a Master's Degree in Business Administration from Trinity University, and specialized training in psychoanalytic psychotherapy from the Washington Center for Psychoanalysis in Washington DC. About 75% of my practice is made up of men struggling with intimacy and relationship issues. Most men are experiencing anxiety and mild to moderate depression, and low esteem issues.“

Where do most men's sense of low self esteem stem from?

"Over the last couple of decades, parental roles and expectations have shifted some, including time spent with their children. Parents are doing the best they can, but fall short sometimes, especially if the child is biologically prone to anxiety. Often times little boys are perceived as more resilient or tougher than they actually are. And since gender roles dictates men not protest, often times, when it comes to their feelings, men 'suck it up'. Over time, the 'sucking it up' can have a cumulative affect, causing anxiety and depression. Unlike women, men do not vent or discuss feelings with other men. Some men literally have no one in their life to discuss intimate things with. Because they have no experience with intimate discussions, they are easily frightened by these types of conversations and tend to shy away.