guilt theory

Guilt theory explains how feelings of guilt influence our behavior and morality. It suggests that experiencing guilt helps individuals recognize when they've wronged someone or violated their own standards, motivating corrective actions and promoting social cohesion. Guilt acts as an internal signal that encourages remorse and responsibility, preventing repeated misconduct. This emotional response is vital for maintaining trust and harmony within communities, reinforcing ethical behavior, and fostering personal growth. Essentially, guilt functions as an internal moral compass that guides us toward behaviors aligned with societal and personal values.