Breggin, P. R., & Stolzer, J. (2020). Psychological helplessness and feeling undeserving of love: Windows into suffering and healing. The Humanistic Psychologist, 48(2), 113–132.

This report explores two closely related concepts: First, that most psychological suffering and personal failure is rooted in underlying feelings of helplessness (psychological helplessness); and second, that this suffering is often fueled by experiences and feelings of being unlovable and especially unworthy or undeserving of love. The scientific and clinical bases of these observations are presented, including their roots in attachment theory and child development, along with practical applications for therapy and life.