London Psychological Services | Psychologist - Blog | London, Ontario

Nicole Cormier

The Oppressive Power of Shame

The Oppressive Power of Shame

Yet shame does not often direct us toward behaviors that will lead us to a more satisfying life. Conforming to the status quo never provides relief from shame, as the fear of “falling out of line” again will always be there. Shame disconnects us from others and from ourselves. It disempowers us in trusting our own decision making, our own skills, our own ability to know what is best for us in this moment. It renders us dependent on others’ approval for reassurance that we are “acceptable,” “valuable,” “worthy.” It breaks us down and leaves us scrambling to pick up the pieces.