Differences in inferiority and shame schemas in childhood and adulthood

Differences in inferiority and shame schemas in childhood and adulthood

Symptoms of Deficiency and Shame Schema

The effects of a deficiency and shame schema can be widespread and affect every part of a person's life. Symptoms of a deficiency and shame schema in childhood and adulthood are as follows.

Deficiency and Shame Schema in Childhood

Children with a shame and inferiority schema worry that others will not accept them because they are imperfect. They believe that if they were different, they would be more lovable or acceptable. These beliefs may cause them to be self-conscious and passive in their interactions with others.

Also, such children may seek approval from others, especially those in positions of authority. This may put them in a vulnerable position because the people they seek to approve of them may not be trustworthy.

Children with a shame and inferiority schema may be withdrawn and anxious, and may have few friends. On the other hand, they may be verbally or physically aggressive toward others. This aggression may stem from a need to release strong emotions or from an attempt to process and understand what has happened to them at home.

Deficiency and Shame Schema in Adults

Adults with a deficiency and shame schema are sensitive to rejection, criticism, blame, and unfavorable comparisons with others. They also tend to criticize themselves unfairly and compare themselves negatively to others. In addition, these people tend to devalue their successes and positive qualities. Given all these conditions, they may have low self-esteem and feel unworthy of love and respect. Adults with this schema usually feel very ashamed of themselves and have a strong fear that their flaws will be noticed by others.

Adults with a deficiency and shame schema feel worthless, so they are hypersensitive to criticism and fear being exposed. Therefore, they are more likely to want to distance themselves from social interactions. They prefer to engage in solitary activities or escape from life and still feel lonely.  Furthermore, when these individuals interact with others, they may allow others to abuse and mistreat them.

It is not uncommon for adults with inferiority and shame schemas to experience high levels of stress and unhealthy coping strategies. They may use substances to distract themselves from their worries or to seek relief. Some examples include gambling or excessive use of drugs, alcohol, or eating disorders.