The Inner Critic: Understanding Shame episode artwork

EPISODE · Sep 11, 2026 · 11 MIN

The Inner Critic: Understanding Shame

from What's going on up there?

Shame is one of our most powerful emotions yet one of the least talked about, particularly at work.In this episode, Grace is joined by Chartered Psychologist Louise Weston to explore the psychology of shame, including why feedback can sometimes feel like a judgment of who we are, rather than something we have done. They unpack the difference between guilt and shame, how shame can trigger defensiveness or withdrawal, and why it can get in the way of learning.They also share practical ways to spot shame, separate behaviour from identity, and respond to difficult feedback with greater self-compassion.References:Leach, C. W., & Cidam, A. (2015). When is shame linked to constructive approach orientation? A meta-analysis. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 109(6), 983–1002. https://doi.org/10.1037/pspa0000037Mróz, Justyna & Sornat, Wojciech. (2022). Shame- and guilt-proneness and self-compassion as predictors of self-forgiveness. Journal of Beliefs & Values. 44. 188-202. 10.1080/13617672.2022.2076455.Tangney JP, Stuewig J, Mashek DJ. Moral emotions and moral behavior. Annu Rev Psychol. 2007;58:345-72. doi: 10.1146/annurev.psych.56.091103.070145. PMID: 16953797; PMCID: PMC3083636.A podcast exploring the psychology behind current events, daily decision-making, and the ideas that frame our thinking.Brought to you by the expert team of chartered business psychologists at Pearn Kandola LLP. Find out more at pearnkandola.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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