What is the term used for blame directed toward one's self based on real or unreal conditions?

The term that refers to blame directed toward oneself, whether based on real or perceived conditions, is guilt. Guilt can arise from actions that an individual believes are morally wrong or from failing to live up to one's personal standards, and it can be associated with a specific behavior or choice that one acknowledges as wrong. This concept encompasses both real situations, where an individual has committed an offense, and unreal conditions, where one might feel guilty over circumstances beyond their control or over perceived failures.

In cases where guilt is felt over actions that didn’t actually constitute a wrongdoing, it highlights the emotional complexity of how individuals assess their own behaviors and feelings. Essentially, guilt can serve as a motivator for individuals to change or to seek forgiveness.

Other terms, such as shame, regret, and remorse, while related, have distinct meanings. Shame often deals with a feeling of being fundamentally flawed or unworthy as a person, which differs from the more behavior-specific nature of guilt. Regret is associated with wishing that one had made a different decision but does not necessarily carry the same moral weight as guilt. Remorse includes a deeper recognition of the pain caused to others, which may accompany guilt but is more focused on the consequences of one’s actions rather than self-blame