What term best describes blame that an individual perceives as directed at themselves from others?

The term that best describes the blame that an individual perceives as directed at themselves from others is "shame." Shame is a complex emotion that arises when a person feels they are being judged negatively or viewed unfavorably by others. This perception can lead to feelings of worthlessness and a desire to hide or withdraw. In this context, shame is significant because it is often rooted in the belief that one has failed to meet social standards or expectations, leading to a deep-seated feeling of personal inadequacy.

Guilt, while also related to feelings of failure, tends to focus more on the specific actions or behaviors that one feels remorseful about, rather than the individual's self-perception in relation to others. Embarrassment is generally a lighter feeling, often arising in social situations without the deep emotional implications of shame. Regret typically involves wishing one had made a different choice, which can relate to actions rather than the perception of self-worth influenced by others’ opinions. Therefore, shame distinctly captures the essence of perceived blame directed at oneself from the perspective of others, making it the most accurate choice.