Depression in Institutionalized Adolescents: The Role of Memories of Warmth and Safeness, Shame and Self-criticism

Abstract

Institutionalization is a current problem, related to several indicators of psychological maladjustment. In the same way, there are several studies that point to the role of shame and self-criticism in the development of psychopathology. Therefore, our study explored, in institutionalized adolescents, whether early memories of warmth and safeness (EMWS) were associated to depression through external shame and self-criticism. The sample included 171 institutionalized adolescents (60.2% girls; Mage = 15.56; SD = 1.49). Depression, EMWS, external shame and self-criticism were assessed. The EMWS didn’t show a direct effect on depression, exerting its effect indirectly through external shame and self-criticism. The relationship between EMWS and self-criticism was fully mediated by external shame, and the relationship between external shame and depression was fully mediated by self-criticism. In conclusion, the way the individual sees and relates to the self seems to impact on psychological adjustment and in the development of psychopathology. The fact that external shame and self-criticism fully mediated the relationship between EMWS and depression emphasizes the relevance of preventive and therapeutic approaches that aim to promote a healthier way of relating to the self.

Shame Memory’s Impact on Depression among Junior Middle School Students: A Moderated Mediation Model

“…Later studies also confirmed that self-criticism functions as an important mediator in the relationship between shame memory and depression [44]. In the research results of Santos et al [13], self-criticism is a complete mediator between shame memory and depression.…”

“…A recent study also noted that self-criticism, which may take various forms and serve different purposes, is closely tied to shame memory. The first is that the "Inadequate Self" is typically used to rectify acts when one feels unhappy or upset about them for the mistakes one makes; the second is that when one's ego is judged to be abhorrent, flawed, and worthless, it is typically intended to harm and attack oneself [13]. Blatt (1974) [14] systematically discussed the close connection between self-criticism and many mental health issues in his research on the relationship between personality and depression.…”

“…Shame memory also has traumatic aspects [20]. Moreover, studies have demonstrated a connection between childhood memories of being threatened and current experiences of self-criticism and depression [21], and self-criticism functions as a complete mediator between shame memory and depression [13]. In addition, individuals with a higher level of emotional management tend to be more positive and better equipped to cope with negative feelings [22] and improve their emotional management ability to be more psychologically healthy and complete their personalities [23].…”

Adolescent institutionalization in semi-liberty: the scenario of social and health vulnerabilities in an Amazon region

“…A violência intrafamiliar e a exposição à violência são consideradas fatores de risco para reprodução de comportamentos violentos tanto as situações de maus tratos presenciadas na violência entre os pais quanto as sofridas diretamente pela criança ou adolescente 1,19 .…”

“…Portanto, por se tratar de um período de importantes transformações para a vida adulta, que envolvem mudanças biológicas, sociais e, principalmente, psicológicas para toda a vida, não deve ser reduzido a uma simples faixa etária. Nesse ponto, a institucionalização surge como um problema atual relacionados a diversos fatores socioeconômicos e de desajustes psicoló-gicos 1 .…”