Childhood Abuse and Guilt-Shame: A Review Study
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https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17837410Keywords:
Abuse, Childhood, Guilt, ShameAbstract
This review examines how childhood maltreatment and neglect (physical, emotional, sexual) shape guilt and shame in later life. Early adverse experiences may profoundly affect self-concept, interpersonal relationships, and emotion regulation, often correlating with depression, post-traumatic stress, suicidal ideation, substance use, and somatic complaints. In particular, emotional and sexual abuse tend to elicit pronounced shame, while physical abuse and neglect may lead to varying levels of guilt depending on individual and contextual factors. Findings suggest that guilt and shame can hinder help-seeking behaviors, deepen interpersonal conflicts, and undermine psychological well-being. Shame often triggers withdrawal and secrecy regarding abuse histories; guilt, though occasionally tied to reparative actions, typically strengthens self-blame tendencies. These outcomes highlight the extensive impact of negative self-conscious emotions stemming from early maltreatment. Based on these insights, broad strategies aimed at preventing and detecting childhood maltreatment are urgently needed, involving collaboration among families, schools, and healthcare institutions. Clinical interventions such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, compassion-focused therapy, and trauma-oriented approaches appear beneficial in reframing guilt and shame. Through timely identification and targeted support, it may be possible to alleviate the harmful long-term consequences of childhood trauma and foster improved mental health in adulthood. By addressing both systemic and individual dimensions of maltreatment, the review emphasizes the necessity of multifaceted initiatives to reduce the pervasive influence of guilt and shame on survivors’ lives.
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