Embarrassment: Its distinct form and appeasement functions.

Embarrassment shows distinct characteristics separate from shame, guilt, and amusement.

• Embarrassment has unique antecedents, experiences, and displays that distinguish it from other emotions.
• There is limited evidence that the physiological responses associated with embarrassment differ from those of other emotions.
• Theoretical accounts suggest embarrassment may arise from feelings of lost self-esteem, concerns about how others evaluate us, or lack of social scripts.
• Remedial actions taken during embarrassment are proposed to correct previous social mistakes.
• Functional similarities between embarrassment and nonhuman appeasement behaviors are noted.
• Several questions about the nature of embarrassment remain unanswered.

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