... to a violation of social norms or moral beliefs. Historically there has been some argument over whether such emotions (especially Shame, Guilt and Embarrassment) can be considered distinct or if they are merely affective aspects of one larger emotional response. What has now been broadly recognised is that although similar, they are structurally distinct (Niedenthal et al, 1994). The three emotions previously mentioned are best to focus on as they have received by far the most study and therefore are the best understood. Embarrassment is generally considered the least 'severe' of the three. It focuses on a particular act (often accidental) that involves a minor violation of social norms, temporarily altering others' perceptions of the self. Guilt, although similar, involves a more deep-rooted sense of responsibility (usually for a more deliberate act) that has caused damage or in some way harmed another. In psychoanalytic terms it involves a violation of ...

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