Observing the Influence of Shame and Guilt in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Systematic Review.

Objective: Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is a gastrointestinal condition that significantly impacts individuals' psychosocial functioning. Accumulating evidence from psychosomatic research shows how self-conscious emotions may influence various levels of adaptation to the condition. The current systematic review aims to encompass studies that have already assessed the role of Shame and Guilt in individuals with IBD. Method: Academic databases were screened to collect studies that met the criteria coded by the authors. 15 studies met the inclusion criteria, and their quality was assessed. Data were categorized as follows: (1) general description of methodology and measures; (2) characteristics of the study samples; (3) shame and guilt in individuals with IBD. Results: Findings from the current systematic review emphasize that Shame and Guilt are prevalent among individuals suffering from IBD and that they may contribute to the development of maladaptive behavioral and cognitive patterns. Conclusions: Clinical interventions should assess the presence of these self-conscious emotions and target them to improve clinical efficacy.