“This is me, shameful me”: how shame and guilt present for individuals convicted of an offence

Hopkins-Young, Olivia (2026). “This is me, shameful me”: how shame and guilt present for individuals convicted of an offence. University of Birmingham. Foren.Psy.D.

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Abstract

This thesis aims to develop the understanding of shame and guilt and how these emotions are experienced by individuals convicted of an offence. Both feelings have been shown to be of particular importance for this population yet appear to be given limited consideration in practice. This thesis demonstrates the negative influence shame and guilt can have for an individual as supported by earlier research, and why this area is important to consider. Chapter two presents a systematic literature review which explores the sociological and psychological factors associated with offence-related shame and guilt. The review highlights the presence of these feelings among individuals in forensic settings. This systematic review includes findings from eight quantitative design studies, which were screened against inclusion and exclusion criteria and quality assessed. The main findings of associated factors for feeling guilt or shame are discussed, considering the implications for professionals.
Chapter three describes an empirical study looking at the experience of feeling shame and how these feelings relate to five individuals sentenced to a mental health treatment requirement (MHTR). Using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA), three group experiential themes were identified: Trapped in Feelings of Shame; Experiences of Opening Up and Moving Through Shame. These themes illustrate the transformative journey of MHTR clients, from feeling trapped in shame, to the process of opening up to and moving through this feeling. The findings hold significant practical implications for the work of professionals within such services but also, instils hope for those struggling with shame.
The aforementioned chapters highlighted the relevance of shame and guilt to forensic work that supports both mental health and rehabilitation. Chapter four therefore presents a critique of the Offence-Related Shame and Guilt Scale (Wright & Gudjonsson, 2007). As one of the only psychometric scales in this area, it is considered a valuable scale to explore these feelings for this specific group. Whilst there remain some limitations in the reliability and validity of the tool, this thesis concludes it remains a useful scale that would benefit from further research. In the meantime, it can be used to aid some helpful discussions about feelings of shame and guilt when working with someone who has committed an offence.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Doctorates > Foren.Psy.D.)

Award Type:

Doctorates > Foren.Psy.D.

Supervisor(s):