Feelings & Togetherness
Why do we sometimes feel ashamed?
Puschel would rather hide. Flauschi listens instead of laughing at him.
The short answer
Shame can feel as though other people are watching or judging you unpleasantly. That feeling does not prove they think badly of you. A mistake does not make you less valuable. A trusted person can listen.
An imagined Wusel scene
Puschel and Flauschi investigate
Puschel stumbles over a word while reading aloud and wants to close the book. Flauschi quietly asks if he would like a break or help. Nobody has to discuss his mistake in front of everyone. Later he decides whether to continue.
Try explaining it
This question is about a fictional situation and considerate actions, not about which feelings you should have.
What helps a character feeling ashamed after a mistake?
Choose a), b) or c), then explain your choice.
- a)Force them to share something personal.
- b)Kindly offer help or quiet without putting them on display.
- c)Keep retelling the mistake to everyone.
Show the explanation
Correct: b): Kindly offer help or quiet without putting them on display.
Shame can feel as though other people are watching or judging you unpleasantly. That feeling does not prove they think badly of you. A mistake does not make you less valuable. A trusted person can listen.
Think about it, if you like
You can use the fictional situation; you do not have to share personal experiences.
What could you do if someone wants to hide after a mistake?
One possible idea
You could kindly offer help or quiet without putting them on display. You do not have to share personal experiences here.
Explore in more detail
Here you will find longer explanations and further details. You can explore them together.
Understand step by step
What does this mean in everyday life?
Examples are possible situations. You need not feel a particular emotion or share a personal story.
Feeling observed
You stumble while reading aloud and think everyone judges you. That uncomfortable feeling may be shame.
A thought is not proof
You do not yet know what others think. A verbal mistake does not make you worthless. People make mistakes.
A safe person can help
Talk privately or take space first. Nobody must share an embarrassing story with the whole group.
References for this explanation: [1]
The key points again
Discovery 1
Shame can arise when we feel uncomfortably watched or judged.
Source: [1]
Discovery 2
A mistake does not make a person worthless. A feeling cannot tell us for certain what others think.
Source: [1]
Discovery 3
A trusted person can listen and help. Nobody has to share embarrassing experiences with a group.
Source: [1]