You Heard It Here

By Rick Nauert PhD Senior News Editor Reviewed by John M. Grohol, Psy.D. on February 3, 2012  Submitted By Andre Powell MAPC   As social networking explodes across the world, a new study suggests using Facebook may not be a great idea for those with low self-esteem . The finding is remarkable; in theory, Facebook should be great for people with low self-esteem. The site allows unobtrusive sharing of information considered important for solidifying friendships and making new friends. However, researchers discovered people with low self-esteem are apt to flood their friends with negative tidbits about their lives — making themselves less likable. “We had this idea that Facebook could be a really fantastic place for people to strengthen their relationships,” says co-author Amanda Forest. Forest and her Waterloo University advisor, Joanne Wood, are studying how self-esteem affects the kinds of emotions people express. In one study, Forest and Wood asked s...

February 2, 2012 When it rains on your parade, look up rather than down. Without the rain, there would be no rainbow. -G. K. Chesterton The devil is not terribly frightened of our human efforts and credentials. But he knows his kingdom will be damaged when we begin to lift up our hearts to God. -Jim Cymbala Why are you cast down, O my soul? Hope in God… -King David Downcast. Does that describe your world? Are you discouraged? May be even a little depressed? Has life gotten the best of you? Is there seemingly little or no hope? The Hebrew word for downcast – shachach – means to be bowed over… weakened… despairing… brought low. The Psalmist David knew what it meant to feel downcast in his heart and soul. Even after being anointed King, he ran for his life from Saul for many years. He dodged spears and lived in caves. In one of these dark moments he cried out, “My enemies are vigorous and strong; and many are those who hate me wrongfully.” (Psalm 38:19 NAS) At another p...