Image for guilt perception in different cultures

guilt perception in different cultures

Guilt perception varies across cultures by influencing how individuals experience and respond to wrongdoing. In Western cultures, guilt often relates to personal responsibility and individual rights, emphasizing accountability and remorse. In contrast, many Eastern cultures view guilt within the context of social harmony, family honor, and collective well-being, where maintaining group cohesion can be more significant than individual blame. These cultural differences shape how people interpret mistakes, express remorse, and seek forgiveness, reflecting broader values about the self, others, and societal expectations.