[The function of shame in depressive disorders]

Beginning with the view of the function feelings of shame for psychiatric disturbances the relationship between shame and affective disorders was described. In a sample of 113 inpatients with depressive symptoms and 81 healthy controls, the relationship between shame, trait-anxiety and intolerance of ambiguity was examined. The results showed that the clinical group scored higher on all measures than the control group. Furthermore, the potential impact of publicity was demonstrated in an experimental varied scenario. Individuals with high shame level expected a stronger intervention after a norm violation than individuals with low shame level. The results were discussed on the background of the function feelings of shame for affective disorders.