What's Up Docs? Daily Dose: Embarrassment
Jan 9, 2026
In this enlightening discussion, Dr. Tiffany Watt-Smith, a cultural historian specializing in emotions and social behavior, unravels the complexities of embarrassment. She explains its vital role in regulating social interactions and deterring norm violations. Tiffany also distinguishes between the fear of embarrassment and the acute experience itself, highlighting how it serves as a communicative form of apology. Interestingly, she compares embarrassment to pain and laughter, emphasizing its function as a social signal. Insightful and relatable, this conversation sheds light on our collective emotional experiences.
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Twins Multiply Embarrassment Risk
- Chris admits embarrassment holds him back "a little bit" but wishes it held him more.
- He notes having a twin doubles the potential for embarrassment when the sibling misbehaves.
Embarrassment Regulates Social Behavior
- Embarrassment functions as a social regulator that discourages norm-breaking behavior.
- Tiffany Watt Smith explains it signals recognition of a breach and promotes social cohesion.
Fear Versus The Feeling
- The fear of embarrassment is anticipatory and distinct from the feeling of embarrassment itself.
- Tiffany Watt Smith highlights that embarrassment often surprises us, unlike the forward-looking fear.