Developmental trauma and shame-proneness: A systematic review

Existing research suggests that individuals who have experienced trauma may have a propensity towards self-conscious emotional states (i.e., guilt-proneness and shame-proneness). However, the investigation of shame-proneness in relation to developmental trauma is relatively recent, and a comprehensive synthesis of the latest empirical findings is lacking. To address this gap, the primary objective of this systematic review was to investigate the relationship between developmental trauma and shame-proneness by identifying and critically evaluating studies published in the past decade on shame, shame-proneness, and developmental trauma. A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PsycINFO, EMBASE, MEDLINE, and ASSIA using a combination of keywords relevant to shame-proneness, trauma, and the developmental period. Fourteen studies were included in the final analysis, which revealed small but significant positive correlations between developmental trauma and shame-proneness. Within this body of research, six key themes were identified as particularly relevant: 1) Shame and guilt, (2) Gender and sex, (3) Parental rearing behaviours and neglect, (4) Peer victimisation, (5) Abuse, and (6) Mental health outcomes. This systematic review provides valuable information on developmental trauma, its underlying mechanisms, and subsequent mental health problems. These findings have important implications for clinical practice, mental health policies, and psychological research.