A feeling of shame and sorrow based on the belief of having done something wrong or failing an obligation.

Emotional state associated with self-reproach and the need for punishment. In psychoanalysis refers to a feeling of culpability that sterns from a conflict between the ego and the superego (conscience). Guilt has normal psychological and social functions, but special intensity or absence of guilt characterizes many mental disorders, such as depression and antisocial personality disorder, respectively. Psychiatrists distinguish shame as a less internalized form of guilt that relates more to others than to the self. See also shame.

Subjective feeling of having committed an error, offense or sin; unpleasant feeling of self-criticism. These result from acts, impulses, or thoughts contrary to one's personal conscience.

Subjective feeling that one has transgressed a moral, social or ethical principle; unpleasant feeling of self-criticism; results from acts, impulses, or thoughts contrary to one's personal conscience.