Shame: Theory, Therapy, Theology

Stephen Pattison considers the nature of shame as it is discussed in the diverse discourses of literature, psychology, psychoanalysis, philosophy, history and sociology and concludes that ‘shame’ is not a single unitary phenomenon, but rather a set of separable but related understandings in different discourses. Situating chronic shame primarily within the metaphorical ecology of defilement, pollution and toxic unwantedness, Pattison goes on to examine the causes and effects of shame. He then considers the way in which Christianity has responded to and used shame. Psychologists, philosophers, theologians and therapists will find this a fascinating source of insight, and it will be of particular use to pastoral workers and those concerned with religion and mental health.

• Rooted in autobiographical experience and easy to read, accessible to counsellors and pastoral workers • Original, comprehensive, critical, interdisciplinary survey of contemporary theories relating to understanding and responding to shame, especially chronic shame • First and most comprehensive extended study of relationship between chronic shame and contemporary Christian thought and practice

Part I. Approaching Shame: 1. Emotional confusion; 2. Problems in approaching shame; Part II. Encountering Shame: 3. The ecology of shame; 4. Chronic shame; 5. Some effects and implications of chronic shame; 6. Aspects of the socio-historical significance of shame; 7. Dealing with shame: the task of integration; Part III. Shame and Christianity: 8. Modern Christian responses to shame; 9. Shame in Christianity; 10. Towards more adequate approaches to shame; Epilogue.

‘Thoughtful observers of the human condition have largely shifted from an earlier concern with behavior toward rapt concentration on the emotions that underlie or accompany it. The very concept of morality forces attention on shame and guilt as the internal enforcers of any moral code. Professor Pattison, whose career long interest in the doing of religious work has made any of his books worth serious attention, here presents a compelling argument that theology must be practical in order to accomplish its goals. In this stunning text, he heralds a shift from a Christian doctrine based on the shaming attribution of the worshiper as inherently defective toward one grounded in compassion, safety, and love. This is a must read for anyone who cares about the future of religious practise.’ Donald L. Nathanson, M.D., Clinical Professor of Psychiatry, The Silvan S. Tomkins Institute, Philadelphia

‘There are a lot of books which address critically issues of contemporary Christianity and theology. This one, however, arises from the inside, does not hide the author\'s deep scars, produces detailed and accessible evidence, is extremely well-informed, and demonstrates the urgency of looking at the shame-generating potential and reality of Christianity. Pattison makes the topic accessible to a wider public: the interested, though not necessarily theologically educated, reader will gain a fascinating and clear overview of some of the fundamental questions Christianity is currently struggling with. One of the great merits of his brilliant study is the ‘import’, as it were, of a wide body of ‘outside knowledge’ into theological thinking. The book takes us deeper into our realities and helps us to face them.’ Werner Ustorf, University of Birmingham

‘This is a must read for anyone who cares about the future of religious practise.’ Donals L. Nathanson, M. D., Clinical Professor of Psychiatry, The Silvan S. Tomkins Institute, Philadelphia

‘The range of questions that this book stimulates is an indication of its quality and importance.’ Theology

‘Pattison has written an important book whose content has been forged in the fire of his own experience. It should be required reading by pastors and others who have the well-being of the people in their congregations at heart.’ Sue and Philip Clements-Jewery

‘This book offers a new and deeper insight into the experience of shame … the author has succeeded in producing a book on the subject of shame that is both scientific as well as profoundly moving.’ South African Journal of Psychology