Understanding Guilt on guilt Guilt is among the most destructive and devastating of human emotions. Because of its painfulness and its terrible impact on self-worth, guilt inclines one toward suppression, walls and denial. Denial causes dehumanization, a loss of the capacity for empathy for one's partner or for others, and can manifest itself in a variety of insidious ways. It is the basis for scape-goating, prejudice and projection.
Guilt builds barriers in relationships.
I am unworthy. It elicits self-hate, shame, and humiliation. In creating distance, it prevents intimacy, leading to isolation, loneliness, and depression, along with hatred and distrust of others. It elicits envy and jealousy of others seeming well being. It cannot allow love or pleasure.