Guilt arises when we recognize that we have engaged in behavior that hurt someone else or that fall's short of the standards set by ourselves or society at large.

Alma College

Guilt is a state of heightened arousal and remorse. Oftentimes we feel regret for what we have done. 

Guilt

Niedenthal, P. M., & Ric, F. (2017). Psychology of Emotion (2nd ed.). Psychology Press.

Psychology of Emotion

Cause of Guilt

Some action tendencies associated with guilt include:
- Desire to make amends
- Seek forgiveness
- Reaffirm their morals and beliefs

Action Tendencies Associated with Guilt

An individual's assessment of the cause of the negative situations determines whether we feel shame or guilt.
- In guilt, we focus on our behavior whereas in shame we focus on our entire self

Learn Before

Related