Embarrassed? Why this feeling might actually be good for you

Laura Elin Pigott

doi:https://theconversation.com/embarrassed-why-this-feeling-might-actually-be-good-for-you-259094

Embarrassed? Why this feeling might actually be good for you

Laura Elin Pigott

Research output: Contribution to specialist publication › Article

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Abstract

Picture this: it’s your first day at a new job. You’re about to introduce yourself to a large group of people you’ll be working with – and promptly fall flat on your face. Not exactly the entrance you had in mind.

We’ve all cringed at moments like these — whether they happen to us or to others. That instant, full-body wince, and the shared, silent relief that it didn’t happen to you.

Embarrassment is a universal, visceral and oddly contagious emotion. It’s what psychologists call a self-conscious emotion. This means it hinges on our awareness of ourselves through others’ eyes.

Original language	English
Specialist publication	The Conversation
DOIs	https://doi.org/https://theconversation.com/embarrassed-why-this-feeling-might-actually-be-good-for-you-259094
Publication status	Published - 23 Jun 2025

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https://theconversation.com/embarrassed-why-this-feeling-might-actually-be-good-for-you-259094

EmbarrassedAccepted author manuscript, 17.1 KBLicence: CC BY 4.0

Cite this

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