Women are more often racked with guilt than men, according to a recent study, and the reasons could be biological as well as cultural. While women experience more guilt, the researchers also say that men feel too little guilt.
The research, which was published in the Spanish Journal of Psychology, compared the reactions of about 360 people from three different age groups (teenagers, young people, and adults) to various guilt-ridden scenarios. They also tested subjects by giving them interpersonal sensitivity tests, which gauged a person’s level of empathy. The results showed that women, especially those in the teenage and young adult groups, demonstrated greater guilt than men.
Why are there gender differences in experiencing guilt? Scientists suggest that one reason is biological. While the female brain is hard-wired to be more empathetic, the male brain is hard-wired for understanding and building systems, they say. And other studies show that even from a young age, women may be more likely to feel empathy. When infant girls are near other crying infants, in a nursery they too begin crying.
The interpersonal sensitivity – how our action or inaction affects others – of men, particularly of younger men aged 25-33, was found to be especially low. Researchers hope the study will be useful in identifying certain sociological and cultural ways to reduce excess guilt in women and to help men develop greater understanding of others. In fact, the researchers suggest that men be more like women – less detached and more empathetic.
Guilt depends strongly on empathy. So while empathy allows humans to share emotions, and understand others, which all agree is a good thing, it also means a higher likelihood of experiencing more guilt. When guilt becomes strong enough to be debilitating, it can cause high levels of stress or depression.
If, in fact, women feel more guilt because it’s hardwired in their biology, what can a woman do to allay excess guilt-ridden feelings? Once you’ve made a choice, consider the situation done, and don’t spend excess time worrying about your decision. Take responsibility, if it is yours, and move on. Simply being more aware of your tendencies will help you to stay rooted in your decision to overcome feelings of guilt. Limit any negative self-talk that only undermines your ability to act effectively. Rather than concentrate on what you’ve “done wrong” today, think about what things you’ve done correctly.
Finally, and perhaps most importantly, stop judging yourself so harshly. Instead, keep in mind that failure and success are subjective, and based upon one’s personal perception.
