Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 7, 2026

Assessment of Social Interaction Behaviors
Published on: February 25, 2011
The Roles of Self-Esteem and Social Interaction in Embarrassment
W Gerrod Parrott1, John Sabini2, Maury Silver3
1Georgetown University.
This study explored embarrassment triggers, finding that social interaction, not self-esteem, primarily drives these feelings. Results suggest social context is key to understanding embarrassment.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Social Psychology
Background:
- Embarrassment is a complex social emotion.
- Existing theories propose social interaction or self-esteem as primary drivers.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the situational factors causing embarrassment.
- To differentiate between social interaction and self-esteem theories of embarrassment.
Main Methods:
- Ninety subjects experienced esteem-threatening feedback disguised as a pleasant pretext.
- Participants reported their feelings of embarrassment and self-esteem.
Main Results:
- Embarrassment and self-esteem levels were most consistent with the social interaction theory.
- The findings indicate social context significantly influences embarrassment.
Conclusions:
- Social interaction is a more significant factor in embarrassment than self-esteem.
- These findings have implications for understanding social anxiety.
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