On the relationship between shame and problems with alcohol through the narratives of Aboriginal women

This paper explores the complex relationship between shame and social problems, examining how shame shapes behaviour, help-seeking and community participation. Through analysis of psychological theory and community-based examples, it highlights how shame can contribute to isolation, avoidance, withdrawal and reluctance to access support.

The resource explains how shame interacts with experiences such as poverty, mental health challenges, family conflict and cultural expectations. It emphasises that shame is not simply an individual emotion but is often reinforced by social structures, stigma...