Embarrassment
Family: Threat and vulnerability
How it differs from similar states
Public awkwardness—I realise I've broken a social norm.
How this can feel in the body
Your face turns red, your eyes drop or look away—your body wants to make itself smaller.
It usually comes up when
A public social mishap; an awkward situation in front of others.
What this might be pointing to
Demonstrates awareness of social norms; exists only in social settings.
What you can do with this
Embarrassment is a sign that you're aware of social norms. That's not a bad thing. Usually, the situation matters far more to you than it does to everyone else.
Where the name comes from
Embarrassment is a social emotion—it only arises around other people, when you're aware of being seen.
Not quite it?
Closest by feel — the same ones the compass would show.
Two minutes, and you will see whether this is really it
