What is the difference between guilt and shame according to the study?

The study found that harm more strongly evokes guilt, while responsibility for harm drives shame.

How do guilt and shame affect compensatory behavior?

Guilt has a greater effect on driving compensatory behavior compared to shame, according to the research.

Which brain regions are involved in guilt and shame?

Distinct brain regions, including the posterior insula and striatum, process inequity and value, while the lateral prefrontal cortex is linked to shame-driven decisions.

Home / Science / Guilt vs. Shame: Brain Maps Reveal Different Triggers

Guilt vs. Shame: Brain Maps Reveal Different Triggers

19 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Harm's impact on guilt is stronger, while responsibility fuels shame.
Distinct brain regions process guilt and shame-driven actions.
Guilt, more than shame, influences compensatory behavior decisions.

Guilt vs. Shame: Brain Maps Reveal Different Triggers

New research clarifies the differing psychological and neurological underpinnings of guilt and shame. The study indicates that the extent of harm inflicted upon another individual more heavily influences feelings of guilt. Conversely, an individual's perceived responsibility for causing that harm appears to be a stronger antecedent to feelings of shame. These distinct emotional responses are processed by different regions in the brain.

Behaviorally, the findings suggest that guilt has a more pronounced effect on driving compensatory actions compared to shame. This suggests that when people feel guilty, they are more motivated to make amends. The study employed a 'dots estimation game' utilizing functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to observe brain activity during decision-making related to compensation.