Citation

Tangney JP, Stuewig J, Hafez L. J. Forensic Psychiatry Psychol. 2011; 22(5): 706-723.

Affiliation

George Mason University.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2011, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1080/14789949.2011.617541

PMID

22523475

PMCID

PMC3328863

Abstract

The emotions shame and guilt may represent a critical stepping stone in the rehabilitation process. Often referred to as "moral" emotions owing to their presumed role in promoting altruistic behavior and inhibiting antisocial behaviors, shame and guilt provide potentially exciting points of intervention with offenders. In this article, we describe current psychological theory and research that underscores important differences between shame and guilt. We note parallels between psychologists' conceptions of guilt and shame, and criminologists' conceptions of reintegrative and disintegrative shaming. We summarize recent research investigating the implications of these moral emotions for criminal and risky behavior, with special emphasis on the handful of studies conducted with actual offenders. We conclude with a discussion of implications for treatment in criminal justice settings.

Language: en