Guilt vs Shame
Guilt and shame are terms that are often used interchangeably, but there are distinctions between the two emotions. Guilt is a feeling that arises when a person has done something wrong and feels the need to correct their behavior. Shame, on the other hand, is a negative feeling about oneself, whether real or perceived. Neither guilt nor shame are tools of any divine being, but they can have strong effects on a person’s mental state.
What is Guilt?
Guilt is a positive feeling in the sense that it can lead to positive change in a person’s behavior. When a person feels guilty for having done something wrong, they may seek to correct their actions. For example, if you scold a friend in a moment of stress and later realize that it was unfair, you may feel guilty for hurting them. This feeling of guilt can prompt you to apologize and mend the relationship.
Key Takeaways
- Guilt stems from actions and can lead to positive change in behavior.
- Shame is a negative feeling about oneself and can be harmful to one’s self-esteem.
- While guilt is about something we have done, shame is about our perception of ourselves.
What is Shame?
Shame is a negative feeling about oneself, whether based on reality or perception. It can arise from comparisons to others, such as feeling less attractive or capable than a sibling. Shame can also be triggered by actions or events that cause us to feel morally wrong, such as being caught stealing. While guilt may prompt a person to make amends for their actions, shame may lead to feelings of worthlessness and dejection.
Difference Between Guilt and Shame
While both guilt and shame are negative feelings, they have different sources and effects on a person. Guilt is about feeling bad for something we have done, while shame is about feeling bad about ourselves as a person. Guilt can lead to positive change in behavior, whereas shame can be harmful to our self-esteem and mental well-being.
