Shame in Family Systems With Developmental Trauma

Abstract

This article highlights the importance of recognizing and working with shame when clinicians are supporting families who have experiences of developmental trauma. This article will help clinicians identify the existence of shame in parents, children, and therapist; differentiate shame from guilt; understand the connection to developmental trauma; and draw information from case examples. This article draws from clinical wisdom and experience, providing possible interventions that may be helpful with this population. Recommendations for future research are also discussed.