What emotion is associated with feelings of shame or regret?

Guilt is directly linked to feelings of shame or regret because it often arises when an individual believes they have violated their own moral standards or harmed someone else. This emotional response prompts reflection on one’s actions and their impact, creating a sense of accountability. When someone experiences guilt, they may feel remorseful about specific behaviors or decisions that did not align with their values, leading to a desire to seek forgiveness or rectify the situation. This contrasts with other emotions; for instance, fear often relates to apprehension about future threats, happiness pertains to positive experiences, and surprise involves unexpected events, none of which inherently carry the weight of self-reflection and moral evaluation associated with guilt.