Alexander Hsieh (SHAY) graduate of Brigham Young University, wrote, “Power of Shame: The Moderating Effects and Peer Connection on the relationship Between Adolescent Shame and Depression, Self-esteem, and Hope.” The article identifies the effects of shame on teenagers, and the harm it creates on self-esteem, body image, self-perception, and relations with others.

Shame and depression

Hsieh defies shame as the internal or external feelings of worthlessness, embarrassment, and/or disgrace brought on by a social experience. Shame is a universal feeling, as it affects everyone, regardless of gender, socioeconomic status, ethnicity, age, etc. By far the most common consequence of shame is depression. Multiple studies and articles have shown evidence of the connections between shame and high levels of depression. Evidence also shows that shame, if left untreated, increases the chances for major depression and the development of PTSD.

In the Scarlet Letter, Dimmesdale’s internalized shame brought him great pain and suffering for himself, going far to seek ways to redeem himself , clearly showing signs of Depression and PTSD.

Shame and Self-esteem

In the article, Hsieh also noted the connections between shame and a person’s self-esteem. Shame from peers often resulted in low self-esteem in the individual affected. He also makes the connection to shame and self-blame, which often can result in hostile attitudes and increased anger.

As Hester gets accustomed to the Scarlet Letter, she suffers from the stares and contempt from the townspeople and her Scarlet Letter. Her self-esteem is constantly bruised and battered, and she has a low opinion of herself.

Shame and relationships

However, there is light even amongst darkness. Hsieh makes the statement that, “Having a positive connection with a best friend and with the opposite-gendered parent dampened the negative effects of shame when adolescents reported high levels of internalized shame.” Positive social support and connection have been repeatedly proven to help teenagers with stress, depression, and other mental health issues. They are able to maintain hope and high self-esteem in their lives, even amongst shame.

Hester had a strong connection to Pearl, who brought her both joy and pain in her life. Her connection to Pearl saved her from Mistress Hibbins as well.

“Shame,”as Brene Brown says, “is the most powerful, master emotion. It’s the fear that we’re not good enough.” Shame impacts everyone in all walks of life, and the consequences can be devastating. Shame damages the very core of a person. It can make an individual who has experienced shame feel as though their hands are forever dirtied, never to be cleaned. But even with those dark emotions, people with positive relationships with others can pull through it, and make it through to another day.