The relationship between self-harm, shame and guilt

Abstract

Self-harm is a major health concern behavior associated with suicide risk and significant psychological distress. Shame and guilt are the moral emotions which play a potential role in the Self-harm or self-injury. Theories also suggest that aversive emotional states are an important process that drives the Self-harm behavior. The present review therefore sought to provide a review of the relationship between Self-harm, guilt and shame. Results of this review support the link between shame and Self-harm. Clinically, consideration needs to be given to the role of shame amongst individuals who present Self-harm behavior and more research should be done on determining the relationship between guilt and Self-harm behavior.