What emotion usually follows shame when confronting societal expectations?

The emotion that typically follows shame when confronting societal expectations is guilt. When individuals feel shame, it often arises from a sense of failing to meet societal standards or personal ideals. This feeling of shame can lead to guilt as individuals reflect on their actions or inactions that contributed to that shame.

Guilt is a complex emotion related to the recognition of having done something wrong, which often aligns with societal expectations and moral standards. When people assess their behavior in light of society's norms, and realize their actions do not align with those expectations, they may feel guilty for not living up to what is considered acceptable. This emotion serves to prompt self-reflection and the desire for atonement or change, motivating individuals to correct perceived faults.

In contrast, pride, anger, and embarrassment may not directly stem from feelings of shame which are more subjective and tied closely to personal and social benchmarks. Pride may arise from accomplishments, anger might stem from perceived injustices, and embarrassment is often a more surface-level reaction to social faux pas rather than a deeper emotional processing related to values and expectations. Thus, guilt is the most fitting emotional response following shame in this context.