Converging Dialogues #60 - The Self-Conscious Emotion of Shame: A Dialogue with June Tangney
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Aug 2, 2021 June Tangney, a Clinical Psychologist and professor, dives deep into the emotion of shame. She clarifies the distinction between shame and guilt, revealing how they shape our identities and societal perceptions. The conversation also explores the dual nature of shame, its adaptive qualities, and its presence in different cultures. Tangney discusses the impact of shame on trauma and health, particularly in therapeutic settings. Insights into its manifestation in pop culture and the interplay with hubristic pride enrich this enlightening dialogue.
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Shame vs Guilt Distinction
- Shame centers on a negative global evaluation of the self; guilt targets specific behaviors.
- People feeling shame see themselves as fundamentally flawed, unlike guilt which relates to actions.
Therapeutic Aha Moment on Shame
- Explain the difference between shame and guilt to clients so they understand they don't have to feel overwhelming shame.
- Highlight guilt's reparative potential to motivate constructive actions instead of self-condemnation.
Evolutionary Role of Shame
- Shame likely evolved as a social mechanism to signal submission and maintain group hierarchy.
- In modern times, shame can motivate self-change but is often painful and hard to leverage daily.
