© Getty Images

What exactly is meant by Catholic guilt? -

Catholic guilt is a strong sense of guilt experienced by both devout and lapsed Catholics. This guilt stems from actions that are seen as contradicting the teachings of the Church and God.

© Shutterstock

Other terms -

The terms "Irish Catholic guilt" or "Catholic guilt syndrome" (CGS) are interchangeable and refer to the same concept.

© Shutterstock

Guilt isn't always a negative feeling -

This self-aware feeling is often connected to a sense of inadequacy and is generally viewed negatively. However, guilt can serve as a moral guide and aid in differentiating between right and wrong. Nevertheless, Catholic guilt is characterized by an excessive and predominantly negative nature.

© Shutterstock

There's no middle ground -

Catholicism has clear guidelines on morality. Actions fall into either good or evil categories, with evil actions considered sinful and carrying consequences.

© Shutterstock

The five rules of the Catholic Church -

Catholics are expected to fulfill these five duties: attend Mass on Sundays and holy days of obligation; undergo confession (at least annually); receive Holy Communion during Easter; honor the Feasts of Obligation; and adhere to fasting and abstinence days.

© Shutterstock

Other guidelines -

In addition to the five mentioned earlier, there are additional guidelines that ought to be adhered to, such as aiding the Church and upholding the Ten Commandments. Neglecting or violating these regulations may lead to a sense of guilt.

© Shutterstock

How Catholic guilt emerges -

Individuals often dwell on the sins they have committed, replaying the transgression in their thoughts repeatedly, contemplating the way in which they violated personal and religious moral principles.

© Shutterstock

What are the signs of Catholic guilt? -

Catholic guilt is similar to other types of guilt, involving emotions like shame, embarrassment, remorse, and sadness which are typically linked to a particular event or action.

© Shutterstock

Guilt is experienced by non-practicing Catholics -

Even individuals who have grown up in a Catholic household and may have attended Catholic school can experience Catholic guilt, although it is more commonly observed among practicing Catholics.

© Shutterstock

Confession -

Confessing can ease guilt, but it doesn't prevent it. One may still feel guilty even after confessing. This is particularly true when the Church suggests an act of penance to seek repentance for committed sins.

© Shutterstock

Sinful thoughts -

Guilt can arise not only after committing a sin but also from contemplating its possibility, triggering a sense of guilt.

© Shutterstock

Types of transgressions -

There are two categories of sins recognized by the Catholic Church. Engaging in (or contemplating) any of these actions can result in overwhelming feelings of guilt.

© Shutterstock

Serious sins -

These are the gravest transgressions that will lead to eternal damnation. They are determined by three factors: serious wrongdoing, complete awareness, and intentional agreement.

© Shutterstock

Mortal sins -

Grave matter refers to highly immoral acts such as murder. Full knowledge entails awareness of the wrongdoing. Deliberate consent involves intentionally committing the sin, without coercion. These elements are essential in understanding the severity and intentional nature of an act.

© Shutterstock

Venial sins -

Venial sins, unlike mortal sins, are not as grave. They are assessed based on whether they meet one or two of the mentioned criteria (all three being required for a mortal sin). These minor wrongdoings do not entirely sever the person's connection with God, unlike mortal sins.

© Shutterstock

Venial sins -

Examples of minor wrongdoing would include a harmless lie. Although these actions won't condemn someone to hell, they do necessitate some form of atonement and typically bring about a sense of remorse.

© Shutterstock

Leaving the Church -

Leaving the Catholic Church after baptism is considered a grave sin. Baptism is viewed as a lifelong commitment, so renouncing the Church is seen as akin to abandoning God.

© Shutterstock

Leaving the Church -

The Church has a Latin saying for it: Extra Ecclesiam nulla salus, which means that salvation is only found within the Church. Consequently, those who choose this path often endure immense feelings of guilt.

© Shutterstock

Scrupulosity -

Catholic guilt can become pathological when it severely impacts a person's mental health, causing constant anxiety about moral and religious concerns. In such cases, it is known as scrupulosity.

© Shutterstock

Scrupulosity -

Individuals who experience profound guilt may develop various symptoms and conditions, such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), as a means to manage their feelings of "sinful" thoughts.

© Shutterstock

Protestant versus Catholic remorse -

People who follow different Christian denominations may experience scrupulosity due to the differing rules and laws they believe they are violating within their respective denominations.

© Shutterstock

Partnerships -

Catholics adhere to strict beliefs regarding sex and marriage. Pre-marital and extra-marital sexual activity, as well as contraceptive use, are strictly prohibited within the faith.

© Shutterstock

The influence of Catholic guilt on relationships -

Sexual urges are a natural aspect of human life, but within Catholic teachings, there's an expectation of greater restraint. The internal conflict between the biological inclination for intimacy and the guilt associated with it being considered a sin can pose challenges for both partners. Fear, anxiety, and guilt often accompany these struggles, potentially impacting the dynamics of the relationship.

© Shutterstock

Homosexuality -

Homosexuality is deemed sinful, and the Church prohibits same-sex unions. Individuals raised in a Catholic household are prone to experiencing guilt, alongside the existing guilt they bear for not conforming to heterosexuality.

© Shutterstock

Effects of suppressing emotions -

Repressing emotions can contribute to depression. Individuals from strict Catholic families often suppress their emotions, resulting in excessive guilt and possibly depression. Solely experiencing constant guilt can lead to depression.

© Shutterstock

Overcoming Catholic guilt -

Dealing with Catholic guilt can be challenging as it becomes deeply embedded in one's belief system. Family values have a lasting impact, making it a formidable task to overcome this particular guilt.

© Shutterstock

Overcoming Catholic guilt -

Recognizing that we lack complete control over our thoughts, emotions, and biological urges can serve as a constructive starting point. Seeking external assistance, such as psychotherapy or other support systems, can be beneficial in addressing and managing this sense of guilt.

Sources: (Coaching Online) (Catholic Gallery) (Lithium Magazine) (America Magazine)

See also: A helpful guide to self-forgiveness

© Shutterstock