Emotion resulting from doing what one conceives of as wrong, thereby violating superego precepts; it results in feelings of worthlessness and at times the need for punishment. Also may be a symptom of several psychiatric disorders, including major depression.
A powerful emotion. Results from remorse over events that have already occurred.
A painful, inwardly directed emotion resulting from the perception that an individual has violated his or her conscience or principles. Guilt leaves the person feeling worthless, low, and in need of punishment.
The state or feeling of remorse or self-reproach for having committed a wrong or crime.
Guilt is a distressing emotion that arises when an individual becomes aware of violating a moral code. Unlike shame, which relies on how others perceive the transgression, guilt is a self-inflicted feeling. Certain psychoanalysts believe that guilt stems from the internalized prohibitions of the superego (conscience) that are developed during early life. On the other hand, some view guilt as a conditioned response to actions that have resulted in punishment on previous occasions.
Experiencing unfounded guilt or feeling guilty for an imagined wrongdoing is a prominent symptom of depression.