ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the nature of shame through the lens of role theory and role analysis. Shame relates to the reality of our being social animals who need the group for survival. The experience of shame is an indicator of the loss of emotional connection. There are examples from practice which highlight the difficulty for some clients to recognise shame and to differentiate it from other emotions. The author emphasises the somatic expression of shame in the consulting room, and illustrates some of the defences against shame and how she works with these. Role analysis is used over time as a tool to formulate the interpersonal and intrapsychic dimensions of the shame response. An example is given of a piece of work which remains dialogic, but which is informed by role theory and role analysis. Further examples illustrate the use of concretisation, role reversal and the containing double. In her work with one client who hoards, the author demonstrates the use of action interventions to help her client access words to describe her internal experience and link this to her early history.
