This generalizes to all forms of intelligence: those who are afraid of the feeling of stupidity and ignorance get stuck and don't move past it. I can't count the number of deeply intelligent people I've known who short-circuit their thinking and learning processes due to this fear.

It's not a self-esteem issue; it equally affects those who see themselves as smart, and those who don't. It's an issue of tolerating discomfort and confusion long enough to get to the other side. I'm not sure how exactly one teaches that.