Survivor guilt: Theoretical, empirical, and clinical features

The aim of this paper is to give the reader an overview of several theoretical, empirical, and clinical features of survivor guilt, and to integrate recent contributions of psychodynamic theory and, in particular, of control-mastery theory into the understanding of the concept alongside the latest findings in social psychology about it. After introducing the concept of survivor guilt and its origins in clinical observations on the consequences of having survived severe traumas (e.g., internment in concentration camps), we will discuss the findings in social psychology on the concept of survivor guilt in everyday social interactions, which is based on a conception that does not connect it strictly to severe traumas. We will then focus our attention on clinical observations and empirical research studies about survivor guilt, discussing the hypotheses developed by several control-mastery theorists about its role in psychopathology. Finally, we will illustrate some manifestations of survivor guilt with a brief clinical vignette.

Automated summary

This paper provides an overview of theoretical, empirical, and clinical aspects of survivor guilt, integrating recent contributions of psychodynamic theory and control-mastery theory, as well as findings in social psychology. It discusses the origins of survivor guilt in severe traumas, explores its manifestations in everyday social interactions, and highlights its role in psychopathology. A clinical vignette is used to illustrate the concept.