Negative Self Evaluation and Motivational Tendencies: The Role of External Shame and Perceived Repairability
Date
2020
Authors
Bartholomaeus, Vanessa
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Thesis
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Abstract
Shame and guilt are self-conscious and moral emotions which influence interpersonal
experiences, mental health, and behaviour. Shame has been perceived as a painful and
problematic emotion, considering its links to psychopathology, while guilt is often referred to
as a useful emotion, guiding individuals towards repair strategies like ethical and prosocial
behaviours. However, research has also shown that after a shame inducing experience
individuals can engage in prosocial and ethical behaviours. Two possible factors that may
influence an individual’s attempts to engage in repair strategies or avoidance strategies after
experiencing shame are feelings of external shame and the perceived repairability of the
situation. The present research assesses the effect of external shame and perceived
repairability on the relationship between shame appraisal and repair and avoidance
tendencies. One hundred and one healthy adults completed an online survey measuring
proneness to shame and guilt, external shame, depression, and repairability. Results showed a
positive association between shame appraisal and repair behaviour. External shame was
associated with withdrawal behaviour, while perceived repairability was not associated with
motivational tendencies. Reliability analysis revealed problematic reliabilities of the
subscales measuring shame and guilt. The relationship between shame appraisal and repair
behaviours are discussed in light of the moral and functional aspects of shame. External
shame, with its direct influence on withdrawal, is discussed with regards to the development
of depression.
School/Discipline
School of Psychology
Dissertation Note
Thesis (B.PsychSc(Hons)) -- University of Adelaide, School of Psychology, 2020
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