Respect or Tolerance?

Respect denotes both a positive feeling of esteem for a person of other entity (such as a nation or a religion), and also specific actions and conduct representative of that esteem. Respect can be a specific feeling of regard for the actual qualities of the one respected. It can also be conduct in accord with a specific ethic of respect. Rude conduct is usually considered to indicate a lack of respect, disrespect, where as actions that honor somebody or something indicate respect.


Respect should not be confused with tolerance, since tolerance doesn't necessarily imply any positive feeling, and is compatible with contempt, which is the opposite of respect.


The RESPECT (TM) SYSTEM is a 7-step treatment system that relies on concrete, repetitive interventions involving kinesthetic actions that can be activated with one word. The system addresses issues of denial, empathy for the victim, and low self-esteem through group interaction. It also helps the client incorporate a plan that helps him dynamically evaluate changes in behavior as progress and skills are learned. The client gradually develops an internalized system of responsible behavioral choices that eventually empower him to trust himself to behave appropriately out in the community. The name for the system, RESPECT, is an acronym that represents each step a client must take in his profound and powerful struggle to transcend the scars of his life on the journey back to trust in himself, and trust received from the community.