Disenfranchised Shame in Moral Injury: Plotting Hope for Healing

Abstract

Moral injury (MI) affects the lives of many individuals. First defined within the context of war, the psychospiritual sequelae of experiences that violate our values is usually understood in terms of perpetration and/or betrayal. This project aims to better understand the role of shame and vulnerability in MI. For many of those suffering morally, shame is experienced in relative isolation (disenfranchised shame). This embodiment of shame is a profound aspect of spiritual distress. Abetted by the ever-increasing individualism rooted in the neoliberal ethos that dominates Western culture, shame often results in further isolation, which exacerbates a wide range of MI symptoms. The disclosure of this shame to an empathetic listener appears to be an efficient pathway to healing. However, maladaptive coping often alienates the patient from trusted other(s) with whom they could be vulnerable. Chaplains are uniquely situated to provide the holy space in which these conversations may take place.