EXAMINING SHAME FROM A RELATIONAL-CULTURAL PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

Previous studies have examined the construct of shame, but little research has been conducted to explore its relation to some of the underlying assumptions of Relational Cultural Theory. The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between internalized shame and connectedness, with empowerment as a mediating variable. The hypothesis that connectedness would be significantly related to internalized shame was supported in this study; however, empowerment was not found to have a mediating influence. An alternative model of these relations subsequently was examined. Collectively, these results seem to point to the need for more complex conceptualizations of the relationships among these important variables. This research contributes to our understanding of how shame impacts the lives of women and the exploration of assumptions central to Relational Cultural Theory.