Support Meeting

The Neuroscience of Shame, Leah Mouw

Shame is a powerful emotion that affects children’s developing brains. Research indicates that shame activates brain regions linked to emotional distress and social pain, potentially influencing long-term emotional well-being. Parenting with shame, such as using guilt-inducing tactics or harsh criticism, can inadvertently shape a child’s neural responses to stress and social interactions. Leah Mouw will help us understand the neurobiological implications to help parents cultivate a supportive and nurturing environment that will promote resilience and healthy emotional development in their children. By fostering empathy, constructive feedback, and unconditional acceptance, parents can mitigate the negative impact of shame and foster positive neural pathways for their children’s emotional health.