Shame is one of the scarier emotions. And it has the reputation of a bad boy—toxic and destructive. But maybe shame is less of a growling guard dog in a spiked leather collar and more of a yappy chihuahua. Maybe it’s something less sinister, more everyday, and even something that can be systematically overcome.
Enter psychologist Dr. Joseph Burgo, who has been practicing psychotherapy for more than 35 years. His articles and commentary have appeared in such publications as the New York Times, The Atlantic, and The Washington Post and writes the blog Shame for Psychology Today. He is the author of two previous books, Why Do I Do That? and The Narcissist You Know. His newest book is titled Shame: Free Yourself, Find Joy, and Build True Self Esteem, and you can preorder it now.
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