5.4 SELF-ESTEEM, GUILT AND SHAME Flashcards
Self-esteem
a person’s level of regard for self.
Guilt
remorse for actions, “I feel guilt for something I did,” (or “thought I did,” or
“feelings I have”, or “I intend to do.”)
Shame
negative feelings about one’s personhood, “I feel shameful for something I am,” (or
“think I am,” or “feel I am.”)
Perfectionism
predilection for setting extremely high standards and becoming displeased
with anything less. It is often viewed as a defense for someone with low self-worth and
self-esteem. Feeling imperfect inside, they conceal those feelings by appearing “perfect”
for others.
List sources of guilt and shame
a. Parents/family-of-origin
b. Teachers/educators
c. Authority figures
d. Race/culture/ethnicity
e. Peers
f. Employers/supervisors
g. Religion
h. Victimization
i. Addictions/compulsions
j. Losses/failures
k. Self-talk
l. Perfectionism
m. Others
Elements of guilt and shame
(1) Blushing
(2) Breathing
(3) Heart rate
(4) Sweating
(5) Pupil dilation/constriction
(6) Galvanic skin response, (electrical)
Elements of guilt and shame: Psychological manifestations
(1) Utilization of defenses
(2) Phobias
Elements of guilt and shame: Sociological manifestations
(1) Isolation
(2) Anti-social behavior
(3) Body language
Guilt and shame reactions: Transfer strategies:
(1) Rage
(2) Contempt
(3) Suicide
Guilt and shame reactions: Compensation strategies
(1) Power
(2) Perfectionism
(3) Blaming
Guilt and shame reactions: Internal withdrawal
d. Humor
e. Behaving shamelessly
f. Addictive behavior
g. Development of healthy pride and self-esteem
Describe the role of self-esteem in counseling: Patient perspective
(1) Perceived as important and essential by most
(2) Improved self-esteem as goal in counseling
Describe the role of self-esteem in counseling: Counselor perspective
(1) Essential for effective counseling
(2) Believed to help reduce burnout
