Women’s Health: A Sociopolitical Perspective 

A Social Development Council report in 1980 indicated relationships between family violence, of which child abuse is part, and a wide range of socio-economic factors contributing to feelings of helplessness and low self-esteem (Donley, 1986).  Problems arising from women’s low self-esteem are increasing.  Lowered self-esteem can be implicated in a wide range of situations including domestic and marital problems often leading to separation and divorce; violence against women; child abuse; drug abuse; absenteeism; suicide; viral illnesses; depression and anxiety.  Clearly promoting self-esteem among women in New Zealand has significance for health professionals.