ABSTRACTIn this paper shame is viewed from several different perspectives: culturally, socially and developmentally. As an emotion shame is shaped by culture and serves as a boundary for the protection of privacy; developmentally shame engenders the awareness of the self and its vulnerabilities. Recognition of shame proneness and defences against it can enhance the therapist's sensitivity and warn against the insensitivity and omnipotence that can often develop unwittingly.