The transformational healing journey from universal shame : a phenomenological-grounded theory inquiry

A phenomenological-grounded theory methodology was utilized to explore the transformational healing journeys of five Caucasian men in recovery from pervasive shame in their lives. An overview of several western approaches to treating shame are included, as well as two predominant Universal Developmental theories of shame and its link to the resolution of narcissism. During the thematic analysis of the interviews, thirteen themes were derived, which constituted a chronological depiction of the story of shame, as it unfolded in the lives of the participants. Additionally, an in-depth look at the families of origin, and the beginnings of shame in the participants’ lives is presented, as well as a picture of how their lives are now, after recovery from their shame. Implications for counseling were addressed.