For any woman who lives with the heartache of low self-esteem—who feels inadequate or worthless, who hates her looks, who doubts that she is lovable, who secretly believes that she doesn't deserve success of happiness—this audio offers invaluable support and guidance. Drawing on extensive research and interviews with women from all walks of life, authors Sanford and Donovan explains how women's self attitudes are shaped by family relationships and by such outside influences as schools, religion, the workplace, and the mass media. Then, with compassion and insight, they provide concrete help: specific suggestions and step-by-step exercises for building higher self-esteem—and ultimately, for living a truly healthy, fulfilling life. LINDA TSCHIRHART SANFORD is a licensed psychotherapist and the co-author of In Defense of Ourselves: A Rape Prevention Handbook for Women and The Silent Children: A Parent's Guide to the Prevention of Child Sexual Abuse . MARY ELLEN DONOVAN, co-author of Love Blocks , has worked as a newspaper reporter, teacher, writer, and editor. Her work has appeared in Family Circle, The Nation, Reader's Digest, and The New Yorker .