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Cycle of Shame & Self-Destructive Behavior
Shame involves an internalized feeling of being exposed and humiliated.
NOTE: Shame is different from guilt. Shame is a feeling of badness about the self. Guilt is about
behavior from having done something wrong or against one’s values.
Shame is a learned behavior from when a person was a child, growing up in an environment where
shame was taught, often unconsciously by parents and other caretakers. Shame is
often used as a tool to change a child’s problematic behaviors. When used very little, it may help
with reducing those kinds of behaviors. However, when used too much, a child learns to internalize
shame. That is, they learn that being shameful is a part of their self-identity, they learn and start to
believe they are bad people unworthy of love. At that point, it becomes far more difficult for the
person to just “let go” of shame.
Shame is created in children through scolding, judging, criticizing, abandonment, sexual and physical abuse, harsh discipline using objects, spanking too often.
Self-destructive behaviors are those things a person does in their life that actually cause harm, whether
emotionally, physically, or psychologically. For instance, a person who is ashamed of their low-paying job
may drink a lot every evening to try and “forget” their employment status. The next morning, the person isn’t feeling 100 %, and therefore continues to perform poorly in the job, relegating them to that type of job until they change their behavior. It can be a vicious cycle if not addressed.
Shame underlies self-destructive behaviors:
Hidden shame often drives self-destructive behaviors such as rage, avoidance, or addictions.
Self-destructive behaviors often are an attempt to regulate overwhelming, painful feelings but lead to more shame, propelling the self-destructive cycle.
Secrecy, silence, and out-of-control behaviors fuel shame.
Shame makes people want to hide and disappear, possibly self-harm thus reinforcing shame.
Breaking the Cycle of Shame
Everyone can break the cycle of shame — even when the odds seem insurmountable. The first step is recognizing how shame is fueling your self-destructive behaviors and acknowledge the shame. It’s okay to have flaws — we all do, because every one of us is human and deeply flawed.
Changing destructive behaviors requires trying out new, affirming behaviors to replace them.
New behaviors that generate positive feedback and reward create new connections in the brain, creating the momentum for ongoing growth and change. (Learning on a neurobehavioral level)
Shame can be relieved and healed by:
Taking healthy risks to be seen and known authentically, acting from a positive motive and trying out new behaviors in a safe (nonjudgmental) setting.
Taking actions that generate pride — the antidote to shame.
Breaking secrecy with people who understand.
You can break the cycle. It will take patience and time, but the more you make a conscious and concerted effort, the more likely you will be able to end the cycle of shame and self-destructive behavior.
Some people benefit from doing this work in the context of a safe and supportive counseling. There are many such options available — you can find a therapist now if you want to try this out with a little additional help.
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