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Embarrassment: The state of research

Current Psychological Reviews volume 1, pages 125–137 (1981)Cite this article

Abstract

Embarrassment is an unpleasant and disruptive experience, its study being of both theoretical and practical importance. This may not only highlight some of the important preconditions for normal social interaction, but may also suggest methods of coping with or resolving embarrassment. Embarrassment has proved difficult to define and its causes difficult to delineate, and the term is often used synonymously with shame. This paper presents a definition of embarrassment, delineates the causes and reviews the research on the topic. A model of embarrassment is presented, based in part on recent research on nonverbal aspects of embarrassment, partly on Goffman’s theorizing and partly on attribution theory, which integrates much of the research on embarrassment.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Psychology, Birkbeck College, University of London, Malet Street, WC1E 7HX, London

    Robert J. Edelmann

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  1. Robert J. Edelmann
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Edelmann, R.J. Embarrassment: The state of research. Current Psychological Reviews 1, 125–137 (1981). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02979260

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02979260

Keywords

  • Skin Conductance
  • Nonverbal Behaviour
  • Experimental Social Psychology
  • Attribution Theory
  • Speech Disturbance