There are many causes of low self esteem, but the leading cause of low self esteem comes when children are not given the positive feedback and love that they need at an early age.
When parents and other adults encourage children in their efforts when trying new things and guide them in a loving manner, these children will likely grow up with a healthy self esteem. This doesn’t mean that little Jack or Jane must be told all the time that they’re wonderful, smart and great looking, but that they’re treated as individuals who are worthy of being held in high esteem.
This must ring true, however. Children know when someone is simply telling them what they want to hear. It’s good for them to have to earn this esteem by trying new things. They also need to know that whether they succeed or fail in their efforts, they are still good people and deserve good things.