Guilt

Guilt arises when we think we have done damage to something, or to someone else. Many LGBTQ+ people carry this weighted fear of putting our family's reputation and/or safety in jeopardy, dishonouring cultural and religious values, or failing to meet a caregivers' expectations, etc.. This feeling also impacts the way we see ourselves and communicate with others - whether this be in social or professional settings - and often reinforces (internalised) shame.

See: Shame, Perfectionism, Courageous Communication, Coming Out and Family.