Self-Esteem Research, Theory, and Practice Toward a Positive ...

240 SELF-ESTEEM RESEARCH, THEORY, AND PRACTICEin, at least at times, by their own delusions and wishes. However, wesuggest that such skepticism, taken too far, may itself constitute a negativitybias that prevents a clear understanding of reality. (Sheldon &King, 2001, p. 216)Instead of focusing on differences, perhaps both approaches shouldlook at points of convergence, complementarity, and integration. Afterall, we saw that it is possible to bring both paradigms and their methodstogether on one positive topic, self-esteem. Perhaps other, more integratedunderstandings occur elsewhere. In other words, instead of standingat odds, the two approaches could work together for the bettermentof positive psychology.Fortunately, such integration is happening in what might be calledthe “second generation” of new positive psychology, particularly amongclinicians. For example, P. Alex Linley and Steven Joseph, who focus onthe clinical application of positivistic positive psychology, suggested thatthe distinction between the two approaches blurs significantly at the levelof real life.We are aware that the relationship between positive psychology andhumanistic psychology has been a subject of debate. To be sure, thereare differences between positive psychology and humanistic psychology,but we believe that these differences are far outweighed by theirsimilarities. Hence, we have worked hard in this volume to speak toreaders from the traditions of both positive psychology and humanisticpsychology. Our knowledge will advance all the more quickly if weare able to acknowledge similarities, constructively explore our differences,and work together in the joint pursuit of our common goals.(2004, pp. xv–xvi)In other words, although the relationship between the two positivepsychologies has often been characterized by dismissal if not antagonism,there is hope. In addition to arguing that the study of self-esteem has animportant and rightful place in positivistic positive psychology, this topicmay also be particularly well suited to the kind of cooperation that Linleyand Joseph suggest. Giving voice to this possibility is the last, but certainlynot the least, aim of this book.SELF-ESTEEM AND POSITIVE PSYCHOLOGYWe saw that self-esteem holds a significant and secure place in the humanisticvision of positive psychology. Although its position in traditionalsocial science is not as secure as it was, self-esteem is still an important