Burdening guilt: Theoretical and clinical features

The aim of this paper is to explore the theoretical and clinical features of burdening guilt according to control-mastery theory \n(CMT), an integrative, relational cognitive-dynamic theory of mental functioning, psychopathology, and psychotherapy. \nCMT posits that burdening guilt stems from the belief that one’s emotions, needs, and way of being are a burden to \nsignificant others. After having introduced some research data about the belief of being a burden to others, we will point \nout how CMT explains this belief in light of a coherent theory of development, emphasizing its connection with early \ntraumatic or adverse experiences with caregivers that give rise to the formation of pathogenic beliefs. These beliefs are \nmostly unconscious, and influence the way people make sense of themselves and their reality, giving rise to symptoms, \ninhibitions, and maladaptive personality traits that obstruct the achievement of healthy and adaptive goals. We will then \ncompare burdening guilt with omnipotent responsibility guilt and self-hate, highlighting the points of contact and the \ndifferences between these types of interpersonal guilt. Subsequently, we will point out the “double nature” of burdening \nguilt, describing how it represents both a self-blame for what one is, and the expression of the need to take care of \nimportant others. Finally, we will propose a clinical vignette to illustrate some manifestations of burdening guilt in the \ntherapeutic context.