What are self-conscious emotions also called?

Self-conscious emotions are referred to as secondary emotions because they develop later in the human experience, following the primary or basic emotions, which include happiness, sadness, anger, fear, surprise, and disgust. Secondary emotions, such as guilt, shame, embarrassment, and pride, require a level of self-awareness and an understanding of social norms and expectations. These emotions typically emerge in childhood as individuals become more aware of themselves in relation to others and their environment.

The distinction between primary and secondary emotions is important in understanding emotional development. While primary emotions are often biologically driven and universally experienced across cultures, secondary emotions are more complex and not as universally expressed since they rely on social context and individual development. The ability to experience secondary emotions signifies growth in cognitive and social skills, including self-reflection and empathy.