Unraveling the Psychological Mechanisms Linking Childhood Ill-Treatment and Low Self-Esteem: The Mediating Role of Shame

Background Childhood ill-treatment at any stage of development has been shown to significantly impair the psychological functioning of an individual and increase the risk of delinquent behavior. Childhood maltreatment in the form of physical abuse, neglect, and sexual abuse is especially detrimental to the development of self-esteem, often instilling feelings of shame in developing children. Objective This study explores the psychological mechanisms linking childhood ill-treatment to juvenile crimes, with a particular focus on the mediating role of shame in the relationship between childhood ill-treatment and self-esteem. Methods This study employed a qualitative approach, utilizing semi-structured interviews and case studies. Direct engagement with juvenile offenders presents several practical and ethical challenges. Therefore, 10 counselors from Chinese correctional institutions and rehabilitation centers were selected as interview participants for qualitative data collection. In addition, two case studies were analyzed to explore the relevance of observed patterns. Thematic analysis was conducted to identify recurring themes within the interview data. Results Childhood ill-treatment contributes significantly to the psychological outcomes observed in juvenile offenders. Thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews with counselors revealed that neurobiological stimuli, emotional dysregulation, and cognitive distortions diminish self-esteem and promote negative self-evaluation in juveniles, largely due to a lack of social identity. These factors contribute to the adoption of maladaptive coping strategies, often resulting in self-destructive behaviors. Moreover, the case studies illustrated that childhood experiences of parental neglect and bullying were closely associated with subsequent juvenile delinquency. Conclusion This study provides new insights for developing interventions aimed at mitigating the adverse effects of childhood ill-treatment.