Embarrassment
Embarrassment is an unpleasant emotional state experienced upon having a socially unacceptable act witnessed by or revealed to others.
It is similar to shame, except that shame may be experienced for an act known only to oneself. Also, embarrassment usually carries the connotation of being caused by an act that is merely socially unacceptable, rather than morally wrong.
Some causes of embarrassment may include:
- losing in a competition, whether it be losing slightly or losing by a lot
- socially awkward behaviour
- making unwarranted assumptions about others
- being mistaken
- accidents (tripping, spilling liquids, etc.)
- being seen urinating or defecating
- flatulence
- misbehaving while drunk
- being seen nude or inappropriately dressed
- being seen masturbating or having sex
- being seen in a sexually aroused state, such as with an erection
- discussing sexual matters
- body odour
- medical conditions (vomiting, fainting, suffering a medical emergency)
- having private information revealed (such as being the subject of gossip)
- accompanying or being associated with someone who is behaving in an embarrassing way
- witnessing someone else's embarrassment [empathic embarrassment]
- being made the focus of attention [e.g., the birthday celebrant]
- being complemented more than you think you deserve
Embarrassment is often accompanied by blushing, nervousness, stammering, and fidgeting.